What is the appropriate action for a 68 year old patient with chest pain and stable vital signs?

Administering oxygen via nasal cannula at 6 liters per minute is an appropriate action for a 68-year-old patient with chest pain and stable vital signs because it ensures that the patient receives supplemental oxygen to maintain adequate oxygen saturation levels, especially in the context of chest pain which may indicate a cardiac issue. In cases where patients are experiencing chest pain, providing oxygen can help alleviate potential hypoxia in the heart and other tissues, supporting their overall stability.

It’s important to assess the patient's oxygen saturation, and if it is below 94%, supplemental oxygen may be considered beneficial. For a patient with stable vital signs, starting with a low-flow oxygen delivery route, such as a nasal cannula, is often adequate while monitoring the patient closely.

Other treatment options involve more invasive or aggressive interventions which may not be necessary for a stable patient. For example, administering nitroglycerin sublingually could be beneficial for chest pain associated with angina or heart attacks, but it requires careful consideration of the patient's blood pressure and existing medications. High-flow oxygen via a non-rebreather mask is typically reserved for patients who are in respiratory distress or have evidenced severe hypoxia. Transporting the patient immediately without treatment might overlook the opportunity to provide supportive care.