A patient in respiratory distress is being cared for by an RN, an LPN, and a nursing assistant. The nursing assistant checks the patient's pulse oximetry level as requested by the RN. The patient's reading is 88%. There is an order for oxygen, 1-4L/m, if the patient's oxygen level is sustained below 90%. The RN is busy assessing a critical patient. What should she do next?

Explanation

•It is within the LPN's scope of practice to administer oxygen. The nurse should not leave her critical patient, but instead delegate this task to the LPN.

Incorrect options:

•The patient's oxygen needs should be addressed immediately. Waiting to complete the current task before addressing the patient could result in a negative outcome.

•A nursing assistant cannot administer medications such as oxygen, so this cannot be delegated to the nursing assistant.

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