What is the significance of monitoring oxygen saturation during CPAP therapy?

Monitoring oxygen saturation during Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy is crucial for measuring the response to therapy. In patients with obstructive sleep apnea, the goal of CPAP is to maintain airway patency and improve ventilation during sleep. By continuously measuring oxygen saturation, healthcare providers can determine whether the CPAP settings are effectively preventing apneas and hypopneas, allowing for proper oxygenation.

If the oxygen saturation levels remain stable and within normal ranges while on CPAP, it indicates that the therapy is successfully improving the patient's oxygenation and addressing the underlying issues of obstructive sleep apnea. Conversely, if oxygen saturation levels drop, it may signal that the current CPAP settings are insufficient, prompting further evaluation and potential adjustments in therapy.

The other options, while relevant in different contexts, do not capture the primary significance of monitoring oxygen saturation in this specific scenario. Assessing the need for additional medications or evaluating patient comfort level do not directly relate to the effectiveness of the CPAP in improving oxygenation. Effective ventilation is indeed a goal in CPAP therapy but is broader than what oxygen saturation monitoring directly indicates. Thus, the best choice emphasizes the measurement of therapy response through oxygen saturation monitoring.