What is the primary method to assess effective oxygenation during therapy?

Monitoring oxygen saturation levels is the primary method to assess effective oxygenation during therapy because it directly measures the percentage of hemoglobin in the blood that is saturated with oxygen. This is crucial in determining how well oxygen is being delivered to the body's tissues. Pulse oximetry is a non-invasive way to obtain this information quickly and accurately, helping healthcare providers adjust oxygen therapy as needed to ensure adequate oxygenation.

In contrast, measuring blood pressure provides information about cardiovascular health but does not specifically indicate the oxygen status of the blood. Listening for lung sounds can offer insights into respiratory function and potential abnormalities but does not quantify oxygenation. Using a spirometer assesses lung function and the volume of air the lungs can hold but does not measure oxygen saturation directly. Therefore, monitoring oxygen saturation levels remains the most direct and effective method for evaluating oxygenation during therapy.