Which sign indicates that a patient may need supplemental oxygen?

Shortness of breath is a key indicator that a patient may require supplemental oxygen. This symptom suggests that the body is not receiving an adequate supply of oxygen, which can occur in various conditions such as respiratory distress, pneumonia, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). When a patient experiences difficulty breathing or feels like they are not getting enough air, it often indicates that their oxygen saturation levels may be low, and they may benefit from supplemental oxygen to improve their overall oxygenation and relieve respiratory strain.

In contrast, while other symptoms such as chest pain can be serious and should not be overlooked, they do not directly indicate a need for supplemental oxygen unless accompanied by respiratory issues. Normal blood pressure does not provide information about the patient's oxygenation status, and feeling cold may relate more to temperature regulation or shock rather than specifically indicating a need for oxygen. Thus, shortness of breath is the most direct symptom that suggests the necessity for supplemental oxygen to maintain adequate oxygen levels in the body's tissues.