What is the target oxygen saturation reading in a newborn after one minute?

In a newborn after one minute of life, the target oxygen saturation reading is typically expected to be around 60% to 65%. This range is an important benchmark for assessing the effectiveness of a newborn's transition to extrauterine life, especially in the context of how well they are oxygenating following birth.

During the first minute after delivery, a newborn's pulmonary function is still transitioning as they begin to breathe air for the first time. Oxygen saturation levels are lower at this stage compared to later measurements because the lungs are becoming filled with air, replacing fetal circulation where oxygen was provided through the placenta. Monitoring saturation in this range allows healthcare providers to assess whether further interventions are necessary to ensure the newborn is transitioning well.

Other ranges provided do not align with expected physiological readings immediately after birth; thus, the target range reflecting the normal expected saturation just after delivery helps guide clinicians in evaluating and managing the newborn's respiratory status.