What is an indicator of partial respiratory obstruction in a sedated patient?

A pulse oximeter oxygen saturation level is a critical indicator of partial respiratory obstruction in a sedated patient. When there is an obstruction, even partial, it can affect the airflow and subsequently lead to a reduction in the oxygen levels in the blood. The pulse oximeter measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is saturated with oxygen. A decrease in this saturation level can signify that the patient is not receiving enough oxygen due to an obstruction in their airways, making this a crucial tool for monitoring respiratory status in sedation.

In contrast, while capnograph readings can provide information regarding the carbon dioxide levels in the patient's exhaled air, they may not always reflect partial obstruction immediately. Blood pressure can reflect overall hemodynamic status but is not directly indicative of respiratory issues. Heart rate changes can occur due to many factors and do not specifically point to respiratory obstruction. Thus, the pulse oximeter reading is the most direct indicator of oxygenation status and potential respiratory compromise in a sedated patient.