Which action should the nurse take first for a patient with suspected ARDS based on vital signs?

In the context of a patient with suspected Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), the priority action should be to assess the patient's oxygen saturation levels using pulse oximetry. This is crucial because ARDS is characterized by severe hypoxemia due to impaired gas exchange in the lungs. Monitoring oxygen saturation provides immediate information about the patient's respiratory status and helps guide subsequent interventions.

Obtaining the oxygen saturation allows the nurse to identify how well the patient is oxygenating, which is essential for determining the urgency of treatment. If the oxygen saturation is low, this indicates that the patient may require supplemental oxygen or other interventions, such as potential mechanical ventilation. Prompt assessment of the oxygen saturation is a fundamental first step in managing a patient with suspected ARDS to ensure that any deterioration in respiratory function is quickly addressed.

Other actions, while important, are secondary to the immediate need to assess oxygenation. Administering antibiotics, providing antipyretics, or notifying the healthcare provider about vital signs can follow, but understanding the patient's current oxygenation status takes precedence in managing ARDS.