In an elderly patient with dyspnea and leg ulcers, what is the most appropriate action after starting oxygen?

• A. assess her vital signs.
• B. apply a moist, sterile dressing.
• C. wrap her legs with compression dressings.
• D. expose her legs.

Answer: (A)

Immediately after starting oxygen, the priority is to reassess the patient’s status by checking vital signs and oxygenation to gauge response and stability. Use a pulse oximeter to monitor SpO2 and observe changes in respiratory rate and effort, heart rate, blood pressure, and mental status. If SpO2 rises toward a safe target and breathing eases, continue the oxygen therapy with ongoing monitoring. If there’s little or no improvement or the patient worsens, escalate care and investigate underlying causes such as heart or lung problems. Wound care tasks like dressing leg ulcers, applying compression, or exposing the legs don’t address the acute respiratory status and aren’t the immediate priority.