When should oxygen be administered to a patient?

Oxygen should be administered to a patient when they are experiencing respiratory distress or have low oxygen saturation levels. This is crucial because oxygen is essential for cellular metabolism and overall body function. If a patient exhibits signs of respiratory distress, such as difficulty breathing, retractions, or altered mental status, they may not be receiving adequate oxygen, which can lead to hypoxia—a condition where the body or a region of the body is deprived of adequate oxygen supply.

Monitoring oxygen saturation through pulse oximetry helps guide the need for oxygen therapy. A saturation level below 94% generally indicates that supplemental oxygen may be necessary to improve the patient’s condition. Administering oxygen in this context can help stabilize the patient's vital signs, enhance their comfort, and prevent further complications related to hypoxia.

In contrast, other scenarios indicated in the question are not appropriate for routine oxygen administration—such as limiting it to cardiac arrest situations, using it solely for heat stroke, or giving it indiscriminately to any patient regardless of their condition. Each of those options lacks the specificity needed to ensure effective and appropriate use of oxygen therapy.