Which of the following is a primary function of oxygen in emergency care?

The primary function of oxygen in emergency care is to stabilize vital signs in patients experiencing breathing difficulties. When a patient is having trouble breathing, their body may not be receiving enough oxygen, which can lead to hypoxia (low oxygen levels in the blood). Administering oxygen helps ensure that vital organs receive adequate oxygen, which is crucial for their function and overall stability of vital signs, such as heart rate and blood pressure.

Providing supplemental oxygen can also improve the patient's oxygen saturation levels, which is a key indicator of their respiratory status. By increasing the oxygen supply, EMTs can help patients regain stability and prevent further complications related to respiratory distress. This is especially important in emergencies where timely intervention is crucial for patient outcomes.

Other options focus on different areas like pain relief, blood clot prevention, or promoting healing, but they do not directly reflect the immediate role of oxygen in managing life-threatening situations related to breathing difficulties.