If a person's SpO2 is 92% after receiving oxygen via a simple mask at 6 LPM for 5 minutes, what should you do?

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Increasing the flow rate until the SpO2 reaches 95% is the most appropriate action in this scenario. A SpO2 of 92% indicates that the person is not adequately oxygenated. The goal of oxygen therapy is to achieve sufficient oxygen saturation, typically aimed at above 94-95% in most clinical guidelines.

By increasing the flow rate, you can enhance the amount of oxygen delivered to the patient. A simple mask at 6 liters per minute (LPM) should provide a moderate concentration of oxygen, but if the SpO2 remains low after 5 minutes, it suggests that the current flow is insufficient to meet the patient's oxygen needs. Increasing the flow rate should help improve oxygen saturation, potentially reaching the target range and ensuring the patient receives adequate oxygen for their metabolism and overall health.

Waiting to reassess without any intervention or switching to a bag-mask device may not address the immediate need for improved oxygenation. The decreased flow rate option is counterproductive since lowering the flow could worsen the low oxygen saturation further. Hence, adjusting the flow rate to achieve the desired SpO2 is a necessary step in ensuring appropriate respiratory support.