Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

Who is authorized to administer oxygen to patients?

1. Any nursing staff

2. Untrained personnel in emergencies

3. Only trained personnel under a physician's order

4. Only the physician in charge

The correct answer is: Only trained personnel under a physician's order

The correct answer highlights the importance of having trained personnel administer oxygen to patients, which underscores the necessity of proper knowledge and skills when dealing with respiratory treatments. Oxygen is a medical treatment requiring specific protocols to ensure patient safety and effective intervention. Trained personnel are equipped with the education and experience necessary to understand the indications for oxygen therapy, recognize potential complications, and monitor patients for any adverse reactions. Additionally, administering oxygen without proper training could lead to risks such as incorrect dosage or delivery method, which could significantly impact a patient’s health. This option reflects the legal and ethical standards in healthcare that ensure patient safety by specifying that only those who have received adequate training and are acting under the guidance of a physician are authorized to perform this crucial task. The requirement for a physician's order emphasizes accountability and the need for clinical judgment in medical treatments.