Which of the following is listed as an 'Other' symptom of hypoxemia?

• A. Dizziness
• B. Palpitations
• C. Cough
• D. Fever

Answer: (B)

When oxygen levels drop, the body tries to compensate by increasing heart rate to boost oxygen delivery to tissues. That heightened heart activity is often felt as palpitations — a racing or pounding sensation in the chest. Among the listed symptoms, palpitations best fit as an “Other” sign of hypoxemia because they reflect this cardiovascular compensation rather than a direct result of low oxygen on the brain or lungs. Dizziness can occur with hypoxemia, but it’s a nonspecific sign, and cough or fever point more to airway irritation or infection rather than the hypoxemia process itself. If a patient reports palpitations in the context of suspected hypoxemia, it highlights the need to assess oxygenation and consider adjusting supplemental oxygen promptly.