A patient with a history of emphysema is showing signs of respiratory distress. What should be prioritized?

In a patient with a history of emphysema exhibiting respiratory distress, prioritizing ventilation with a bag-mask device is critical. Emphysema, a form of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), often leads to significant airflow limitations and can reduce the patient’s ability to effectively ventilate on their own. When they become acutely distressed, this may result in inadequate gas exchange, leading to hypoxia and potential respiratory failure.

Using a bag-mask device provides positive pressure ventilation, which can help to ensure that the patient receives sufficient air and oxygen, especially if they are unable to maintain their own ventilation effectively. This action can quickly address the immediate concern of respiratory failure, making it a priority in an emergency situation.

Other options such as administering oxygen or assessing oxygen saturation are important but secondary steps in this scenario. Supplying oxygen may not adequately address the underlying issue of ventilation, and while auscultating breath sounds can provide important information about the patient's condition, it does not address the immediate need for effective ventilation. Thus, focusing on providing ventilation is the most urgent intervention in cases of respiratory distress in a patient with emphysema.