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The correlation between the degree of postanesthetic recovery (PAR) in children as measured by a modified Aldrete scoring system and oxygen saturation (Sao2) wasstudied. Eighty-one ASA PS I unpremedicated infants and children were studied. Oxygen saturation and PAR scores were recorded on arrival in the recovery room, then at 5-minute-intervals. Patients with Sao2 > 95% were given supplemental oxygen. The proportion of children with Sao2 > 95% and >=95% was not significantly differentamong patients with low PAR scores (<=6) and those with high scores (7-10) in any agegroup. Similarly, the magnitude of Sao, increase after oxygen supplementation did not seem to correlate with increasing wakefulness; i.e., higher PAR scores. It is concluded that children recovering from anesthesia can become hypoxemic in the recovery room. Thedegree of wakefulness as measured by a PAR score cannot be used to establish an end point for oxygen supplementation. Oxygen supplementution and/or Sao, monitoring are recommended in all children recovering from anesthesia.

(C) 1988 International Anesthesia Research Society