A patient who has been involved in a motor vehicle crash is admitted to the emergency department (ED) with cool, clammy skin; tachycardia; and hypotension. Which of these prescribed interventions should the nurse implement first?

A. Administer oxygen at 100% per non-rebreather mask is correct because the patient shows signs of hypovolemic shock (cool, clammy skin, tachycardia, hypotension), indicating inadequate tissue perfusion and oxygenation. The first priority in shock is always airway and oxygenation to prevent organ hypoxia and further deterioration. Oxygen administration is immediate and lifesaving. B. Place the patient on continuous cardiac monitor is important but is secondary. Monitoring helps detect dysrhythmias caused by shock, but it does not directly correct hypoxia or improve tissue perfusion, which are higher priorities. C. Draw blood to type and crossmatch for transfusions is necessary for fluid resuscitation, especially if hemorrhage is suspected, but it is not the first action. Ensuring oxygen delivery to tissues comes before preparing for transfusion. D. Insert two 14-gauge IV catheters in antecubital space is also important for rapid fluid or blood administration, but it comes after oxygen therapy is initiated, since airway and oxygenation take precedence over vascular access in the initial assessment.