A 66-year-old male has summoned your assistance because he is short of breath and his home pulse oximeter is reading 89%, despite 3 lpm of home medical oxygen. Assessment reveals an intact airway and adequate breathing. His radial pulse is normal and skin hot and dry. Vital signs are: pulse 84, respirations 18, and blood pressure 166/86 mmHg. Breath sounds are clear bilaterally. His pulse oximeter is fluctuating between 88% and 90%. In this situation you would first:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Checking the patient's SpO₂ with your pulse oximeter is a prudent first step to verify the accuracy of the home device reading before making further interventions.

A 66-Year-Old Male Has Summoned Your Assistance Because He Is