A patient complaining of shortness of breath and a history of asthma has the following vital signs: pulse 96, respirations 20, blood pressure 132/86, and SpO₂ 92% on room air. Mild wheezing is noted bilaterally and the patient states that she has run out of her rescue inhaler (albuterol). Regarding the patient's respiratory status, you would administer:

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The patient's SpO₂ is 92%, indicating mild hypoxemia. Administering 2 liters per minute (lpm) of oxygen through a nasal cannula is appropriate to increase oxygen saturation to a safer level without causing potential hyperoxia, especially considering the patient's history of asthma. Higher flows or a nonrebreather mask are not indicated based on the current oxygen saturation and the mild symptoms described.

A Patient Complaining of Shortness of Breath and a History