What is the target range for pre-ductal SpO2 four minutes after delivery for a term infant?

The target range for pre-ductal SpO2 four minutes after delivery for a term infant is indeed 75-80%. During the first few minutes of life, especially in term infants, it is crucial to monitor oxygen saturation to ensure the baby is transitioning properly from fetal to extrauterine life.

At four minutes after delivery, the expected physiological changes in a newborn include the initiation of effective breathing and the establishment of lung inflation, which significantly impacts the infant's oxygenation status. The increase in SpO2 values is a result of improved pulmonary perfusion and gas exchange, which typically leads to saturation levels within this target range.

This 75-80% range is based on guidelines from organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Resuscitation Council, which provide evidence-based recommendations for monitoring and managing newborns immediately after birth. Therefore, within this time frame, an SpO2 reading in the specified range indicates a positive response to birth and an appropriate adaptation to breathing air.