What must a nurse ensure before administering oxygen?

Before administering oxygen, it is essential for a nurse to confirm that there is a physician order for the oxygen delivery. This requirement is in place to ensure that oxygen therapy is used appropriately and safely according to the patient's specific needs. Oxygen can be a potent medication that requires proper assessment, monitoring, and regulation, as improper use can lead to complications such as oxygen toxicity or impaired ventilation.

Physician orders provide the necessary guidelines, including the indication for oxygen therapy, the prescribed flow rate, and the delivery method (e.g., nasal cannula, mask). This ensures that the nurse is following an approved treatment protocol and provides a legal and ethical basis for administering such therapy.

While other options may contain elements related to patient care and policy, they do not address the critical need for a physician's order, which is vital for safe and effective oxygen therapy.