When treating patients with sepsis, intensive care unit (ICU) and emergency department clinicians have learned that improved outcomes occur when staff members work together as a team. This article outlines the value of central venous oxygen saturation (Scvo2) measurement in sepsis patients, emphasizing the role of the respiratory care practitioner in measuring Scvo2 using blood gas oximetry.

The measurement of Scvo2 has a controversial role in patients with sepsis. To review its value, remember that this measure is a surrogate for tissue oxygen consumption in the upper body. Decreased Scvo2 reflects an increased difference in oxygen leaving the left ventricle minus oxygen returning to the right ventricle.

The normal value for Scvo2 is 65% to 70%. The lower the Scvo2, the more inadequate the blood supply to tissues.

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