What should be done for a supine patient with shallow respiration and low SpO2?

Assisting ventilations with a bag-valve mask is essential for a supine patient exhibiting shallow respiration and low oxygen saturation (SpO2). Shallow respirations indicate that the patient is not taking in enough air, which can lead to inadequate oxygen exchange in the lungs and result in low SpO2 levels. By using a bag-valve mask, you can effectively provide positive pressure ventilation, helping to inflate the lungs and improve oxygen delivery to the bloodstream.

In this situation, simply providing supplemental oxygen may not be sufficient if the patient's respirations are too shallow to facilitate adequate ventilation and oxygenation. While monitoring vital signs is important, it does not directly address the immediate need for respiratory support. Immediate CPR is indicated in cases of cardiac arrest or unresponsiveness, but it is not appropriate for a patient who is merely demonstrating shallow breathing. Therefore, assisting ventilations is the most effective and immediate intervention to improve their condition.