Which is a key safety step when delivering oxygen therapy?

• A. Ignore device checks and start flow without an order.
• B. Verify order and device, monitor SpO2, adjust flow as ordered, humidify if prescribed, check for skin breakdown, avoid open flames.
• C. Apply humidification only if no order, and ignore SpO2.
• D. Assume oxygen is safe for all patients regardless of condition.

Answer: (B)

The main safety idea is to follow a verified plan for oxygen delivery and actively monitor the patient’s response. Start by confirming the order and the exact device and flow to ensure you’re delivering the right amount. Then keep an eye on the patient’s oxygen saturation (SpO2) and adjust flow as ordered to reach the target range. Use humidification if it’s prescribed to keep mucous membranes comfortable and prevent dryness. Regularly inspect the skin where the device rests to prevent breakdown, and never bring flames or ignition sources near oxygen, since oxygen supports combustion.

Why the other approaches aren’t safe: delivering oxygen without a valid order can lead to incorrect dosing; skipping SpO2 monitoring or adjusting flow without an order can leave the patient undertreated or overexposed; adding humidification without a prescription or ignoring SpO2 defeats safety checks; and assuming oxygen is safe for every patient ignores individual conditions and risks.