What should you do if the patient shows signs of deterioration despite initial interventions?

• A. Administer oxygen as ordered
• B. Assess oxygenation
• C. Monitor vitals
• D. Escalate care as needed

Answer: (D)

When a patient deteriorates despite initial interventions, the priority is to bring in additional expertise and resources by escalating care. Initial steps like giving oxygen, reassessing oxygenation, and continuously monitoring vitals are essential, but if those measures don’t stabilize the patient, you must trigger a higher level of response. Escalating care means notifying the appropriate clinicians (supervisor, physician) and activating a rapid-response or code team to obtain more experienced assessment and interventions quickly. This could also involve arranging transfer to a higher-acuity area if needed. Continue following orders and maintaining monitoring while escalation is in progress, but don’t delay seeking higher-level help when deterioration persists.