An infant in respiratory distress is placed on pulse oximetry. The oxygen saturation indicates 85%. What is the priority nursing intervention?

• A. Evaluate the blood pH.
• B. Begin humidified oxygen via hood.
• C. Stimulate infant crying.
• D. Place the infant under a radiant warmer.

Answer: (B)

When an infant in respiratory distress has a low oxygen saturation, the priority is to improve oxygenation right away. Providing humidified oxygen via a hood delivers a controlled amount of inspired oxygen, helping to raise the SpO2 toward safer levels while keeping the airway moist and easing breathing. This direct action addresses the immediate problem of hypoxemia and reduces tissue hypoxia.

While checking blood pH is important for understanding the infant’s overall status, it does not correct the low oxygen level. Stimulating the infant to cry may aid ventilation in some situations, but it does not address the underlying insufficient oxygen delivery. A radiant warmer helps with temperature control but not with oxygenation. Continuous monitoring is essential, and if oxygenation does not improve with the hood, further respiratory support would be considered.