Hi, this is not so much a medical question, more a plea for academic help. Hope that’s okay?

I am not a medical student, more an exercise physiology student. I am doing a study with altitude (Intermittent Hypoxic treatment) where we are simulating an altitude of 4000m.

To protect our participants, if their SpO2 levels drop below 86% we will end the treatment.

We are using the SpO2 as a cut off for two reasons.
1- That’s when the Pulse oximetry equipment warms us about dropping blood O2 levels.
2- That’s what is in other similar research.

However, none of the pervious research highlights why they use SPo2 of 86% and indeed if it is safe to have those levels for 1.5 hours.

Can anyone advise me on this matter.

Greatest thanks

B