If the tubing is disconnected, what should you do immediately?

The immediate priority when tubing is disconnected, especially in a clinical setting where oxygen therapy is involved, is to reconnect the tubing. This action ensures that the patient receives the necessary oxygen as quickly as possible, minimizing the risk of hypoxia or other complications associated with interrupted oxygen delivery. Reconnecting the tubing allows you to restore the oxygen flow immediately, addressing the most critical need for the patient.

While it is important to consider other steps such as calling for help or assessing the situation further, reestablishing the connection takes precedence in this context to ensure the patient’s safety and well-being. By reconnecting the tubing, you are directly addressing the immediate concern of maintaining oxygenation until further measures can be taken.