What is the lowest SpO2 level recorded during a sleep study known as?

The lowest SpO2 level recorded during a sleep study is referred to as the Saturation Nadir. This term is used to describe the lowest point to which the oxygen saturation drops during the sleep period. Monitoring this value is critical in evaluating the severity of oxygen desaturation events, which can be indicative of various sleep-related breathing disorders, particularly sleep apnea. Understanding the nadir helps clinicians determine the extent of a patient’s hypoxemia during sleep, aiding in diagnosis and treatment planning.

In contrast, Saturation Peak would imply the highest level achieved, which does not pertain to the lowest recorded level. Saturation Average refers to a mean value, providing an overall view but not specifically highlighting the lowest point. Saturation Threshold suggests a specific level that triggers concern or intervention but does not denote the lowest recorded value in the study. Therefore, the term Saturation Nadir is the most accurate descriptor for the lowest SpO2 level during sleep monitoring.