A 27-year-old female has rapid heart rate and dizziness. What should you do first?

In the scenario presented, the first action should be to administer oxygen. Rapid heart rate (tachycardia) and dizziness can be indicative of multiple underlying conditions, potentially including hypoxia, anxiety, or a cardiac event. By providing supplemental oxygen, you can help ensure that the patient is receiving adequate oxygenation, which is crucial for her brain and vital organs to function properly.

Oxygen is a fundamental part of emergency care, especially when a patient presents with symptoms that could suggest inadequate oxygenation. It helps to improve the patient's overall condition and may alleviate symptoms of dizziness and discomfort. This initial step is vital in stabilizing the patient and can set the stage for further interventions or treatment as needed.

Once oxygen has been administered, other assessments and actions can follow, such as monitoring vital signs, obtaining a more detailed history, or preparing for transport. Therefore, starting with oxygen can support the patient's respiratory needs while further evaluation is conducted.