While initiating oxygen, which action should you perform to confirm oxygen delivery effectiveness?

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

Answer: (B)

Initiating oxygen is most effective when you verify that gas exchange is actually improving. Assessing oxygenation means checking how well blood is carrying oxygen by using pulse oximetry to monitor SpO2, and, if needed, arterial blood gases, along with observing clinical signs of adequate oxygen delivery such as comfortable breathing, stable work of breathing, and appropriate mental status. This direct check shows whether the oxygen being delivered is meeting the body’s needs, which is why it’s the best action to confirm effectiveness. Administering oxygen as ordered is essential, but it doesn’t tell you if oxygenation has improved. Monitoring vitals provides useful information about overall status yet doesn’t specifically confirm oxygenation. Escalating care as needed is the next step if oxygenation remains insufficient after assessment and adjustments.