What should be done if a patient's oxygen saturation is less than 94% during a primary assessment?

When a patient's oxygen saturation is less than 94%, it indicates that they are not receiving enough oxygen, which can lead to hypoxia and subsequent complications if not addressed promptly. Administering supplemental oxygen is the appropriate action in this scenario, as it helps to increase the oxygen levels in the blood, improving the patient's overall oxygenation status and reducing the risk of further deterioration.

Supplemental oxygen can be administered through various means, such as a nasal cannula or a non-rebreather mask, depending on the severity of the patient's condition and the level of support required. This intervention is crucial during the primary assessment, as it addresses the immediate need for improved oxygenation while further assessments and treatments are conducted.

Other options, such as beginning CPR, would only be necessary if the patient were in cardiac arrest, which is not indicated solely by low oxygen saturation. Taking no action would allow the patient to remain hypoxic, which is unsafe. Administering nitroglycerin is specific for certain cardiac conditions and could potentially exacerbate low oxygen saturation rather than improve it. Therefore, providing supplemental oxygen is the most direct and correct response to this critical finding during the assessment.