At an altitude of 12,000 feet, a person's pulse oximetry reading may be in which range?

At an altitude of 12,000 feet, the partial pressure of oxygen is significantly lower than at sea level, which results in decreased oxygen saturation in the blood. Normal pulse oximetry readings at sea level typically range from 95% to 100%. However, as altitude increases, arterial oxygen saturation tends to decrease due to the reduced availability of oxygen.

At 12,000 feet, it is common for healthy individuals to exhibit pulse oximetry readings in the high 80s range. This corresponds with physiological adaptations to altitude, which affect an individual's ability to maintain adequate oxygen saturation levels. As the body acclimatizes to higher elevations, some individuals may experience readings that can remain in the mid-to-high 80s, reflecting the challenges posed by reduced atmospheric oxygen.

This comprehension of how altitude impacts oxygen saturation is essential in the context of Tactical Combat Casualty Care, as it helps responders anticipate potential issues and make informed decisions about patient care in high-altitude environments.