How fast
Within 30 minutes
Sooner if anything on the go-now list applies.
Go now if
- SpO₂ under 88% (or under 85% if target is 88–92%)
- RR 25 or more, or struggling to speak
- New confusion or drowsiness
- Chest pain
Ask on the phone
- Sats, oxygen device and flow rate, and their prescribed target range.
- Respiratory rate; can they talk in full sentences?
- COPD or known CO₂ retainer?
- Is the probe reading well (cold hands, poor trace)?
Every bleep: the basics
- Name, ward, bed, age, why they're in hospital.
- Full set of obs and the NEWS2 score — and what it was before.
- Resuscitation status (DNACPR / ReSPECT) and ceiling of care.
Ask the nurse to start
- Sit them up; titrate oxygen to the target range.
- Repeat full obs; ECG if chest pain or tachycardic.
- Get a blood gas kit ready.
Call your senior if
- Not reaching target despite oxygen, rising oxygen need, or RR 25+.
When you get there
For healthcare professionals, as an aid to clinical judgement — not a substitute for it. Follow your local policy and ask a senior when in doubt.