A hypothermic patient is admitted to the emergency department, and pulse oximetry (SpO₂) indicates that the O₂ saturation is 96%. Which action should the nurse take next?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Although the O₂ saturation is adequate, the left shift in the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve will decrease the amount of oxygen delivered to tissues, so high oxygen concentrations should be given until the patient is normothermic. The other actions also are appropriate, but the initial action should be to administer oxygen.

A Hypothermic Patient Is Admitted to the Emergency Department, and Pulse