What is a critical factor when determining the flow rate of supplemental oxygen?

The presence of respiratory distress is a critical factor when determining the flow rate of supplemental oxygen because it directly relates to the patient's immediate physiological needs. When a patient is experiencing respiratory distress, their body is struggling to obtain sufficient oxygen, which can lead to hypoxia or inadequate oxygenation of tissues. In such scenarios, healthcare providers prioritize oxygen delivery to alleviate the patient's distress and improve their overall oxygen saturation levels.

Adjusting the flow rate based on respiratory distress ensures that the patient receives an adequate supply of oxygen that corresponds to their level of need. If a patient is in acute respiratory failure or has a significant increase in work of breathing, higher flow rates may be necessary to meet their demands. Hence, careful assessment of their condition is essential to determine the appropriate flow rate to optimize oxygen therapy and support the patient's breathing effectively.