What should be done for a 45-year-old female with chest pain who is removing her non-rebreather mask?

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In this scenario, the patient is a 45-year-old female experiencing chest pain and is actively removing her non-rebreather mask. While the goal is to provide oxygen and support her breathing, the critical factor here is that she is not tolerating the mask, which could lead to inadequate oxygen delivery.

Using a nasal cannula allows for a more comfortable means of oxygen delivery. It can still provide supplemental oxygen; while it is not as effective as a non-rebreather mask in terms of delivering a higher concentration of oxygen, it is a better option if the patient is refusing the non-rebreather. This choice recognizes the patient's autonomy and comfort while still addressing the need for oxygen therapy.

Encouraging her to keep the mask on may lead to distress or anxiety, further aggravating her condition. Administering aspirin may be considered important for treating potential cardiac issues, but it doesn't address the immediate need for oxygenation. Calling for advanced medical support is also crucial but does not resolve the immediate problem of the patient refusing the mask. The nasal cannula strikes a balance between providing oxygen support and respecting the patient's comfort.

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