What is an appropriate response for a patient experiencing respiratory distress?

When a patient is experiencing respiratory distress, providing high-flow oxygen is a crucial response. This approach is appropriate because respiratory distress indicates that the patient is having difficulty breathing and may not be getting enough oxygen. By delivering high-flow oxygen, you can help ensure that the patient's oxygen saturation levels improve, thereby alleviating some of their symptoms and supporting their respiratory function.

High-flow oxygen can provide a higher concentration of oxygen than ambient air, which is vital for a patient who is struggling to breathe effectively. In situations where a patient's airway is compromised or they exhibit poor oxygenation, administering supplemental oxygen is a standard intervention that can rapidly stabilize their condition.

Other options, such as starting IV fluids, asking the patient to walk around, or giving them water, do not effectively address the immediate need for oxygenation in a patient experiencing respiratory distress and may potentially worsen their condition.