What is an essential step before administering oxygen therapy?

Before administering oxygen therapy, conducting a thorough assessment of the patient is crucial. This step ensures that healthcare providers understand the patient’s current medical condition and any underlying issues that may affect their oxygen needs. A thorough assessment includes reviewing the patient's medical history, identifying the cause of shortness of breath, evaluating vital signs, and determining the patient's level of consciousness.

By performing this assessment, healthcare providers can tailor oxygen therapy to meet the patient's specific requirements, whether that involves adjusting the flow rate or determining the appropriate delivery method. It also helps in identifying any potential complications or contraindications that may arise from oxygen therapy. This comprehensive approach ultimately enhances patient safety and therapeutic effectiveness.