Which vital sign is primarily monitored in a patient with suspected heart failure?

In patients with suspected heart failure, monitoring oxygen saturation levels is critical due to the potential for pulmonary congestion and impaired gas exchange. Heart failure can lead to fluid accumulation in the lungs, which can result in hypoxia. Therefore, tracking oxygen saturation allows clinicians to assess the patient’s respiratory status and determine if supplemental oxygen or further interventions are necessary.

While blood pressure, heart rate, and respiratory rate are also important vital signs in managing heart failure, they do not provide as direct insight into the patient's immediate oxygenation status as oxygen saturation levels do. Blood pressure can help evaluate the hemodynamic status, heart rate can reflect the cardiac workload, and respiratory rate may indicate respiratory distress. However, in the context of heart failure, ensuring adequate oxygenation is paramount, making oxygen saturation a key focus in monitoring.