n patients at risk of hypercapnic (type 2) respiratory failure, target oxygen saturations of between ... and ... % are commonly used.

In patients at risk for hypercapnic (type 2) respiratory failure, it's crucial to balance the delivery of oxygen to alleviate hypoxemia while avoiding carbon dioxide retention, which can worsen their condition. The common practice is to target oxygen saturations between 88% and 92%.

This target range is based on the need to maintain adequate oxygenation without excessively increasing the inspired oxygen concentration, which can lead to elevated arterial CO2 levels. Hypercapnia can result from inadequate ventilation, and high oxygen concentrations can diminish the respiratory drive in vulnerable patients. Thus, careful monitoring and adjustment of oxygen therapy are essential for these individuals to ensure effective management of their respiratory status while minimizing the risk of respiratory acidosis. Regular assessment of blood gases, alongside monitoring the patient's clinical condition, is often necessary to guide treatment decisions effectively.