What is venous oxygen saturation (SvO2) and what does a low versus high SvO2 indicate?

What is venous oxygen saturation (SvO2) and what does a low versus high SvO2 indicate?

• A. SvO2 reflects DO2 vs VO2 balance; normal ~60-80%; low SvO2 indicates inadequate DO2 or high consumption; high SvO2 indicates reduced oxygen extraction or mitochondrial dysfunction.
• B. SvO2 measures blood viscosity; low indicates dehydration; high indicates polycythemia.
• C. SvO2 is arterial oxygen content; low means anemia; high means polycythemia.
• D. SvO2 measures alveolar ventilation; low indicates hypoventilation; high indicates hyperventilation.

Answer: (C)