PaO2t
PaO2t refers to the partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood. It is a measure of how much oxygen is dissolved in the plasma of the blood, which is then available for diffusion into tissues. This value is a critical component of arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis. Normal PaO2t levels typically range from 80 to 100 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) in healthy individuals breathing room air at sea level. Factors such as age, altitude, and the fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) can influence PaO2t. A decreased PaO2t, known as hypoxemia, can indicate various respiratory or circulatory problems, including pneumonia, pulmonary embolism, or heart failure. Conversely, an elevated PaO2t is less common and may occur with excessive oxygen administration. Physicians use PaO2t, along with other ABG parameters like PCO2 and pH, to assess oxygenation status and guide patient management, especially in critical care settings. Regular monitoring of PaO2t is essential for diagnosing and treating conditions affecting oxygen delivery to the body's tissues.