A patient who has been involved in a motor-vehicle crash is admitted to the emergency department in shock, Of the prescribed orders, below, which order will the nurse implement first?

A. Draw blood to type and crossmatch for transfusions: Obtaining blood for transfusion is important for managing hemorrhagic shock, but it does not immediately address the patient’s oxygenation status. Delaying oxygen administration could worsen hypoxia and organ perfusion. B. Administer oxygen at 100% per non-rebreather mask: The priority in shock is ensuring adequate tissue oxygenation. Administering high-flow oxygen immediately improves oxygen delivery to vital organs and supports cellular metabolism while other interventions, such as establishing IV access and preparing for transfusion, are initiated. C. Insert two 20-gauge IV catheters: Establishing IV access is essential for fluid resuscitation and medication administration. However, oxygenation takes precedence because inadequate oxygen delivery can rapidly lead to cellular injury or death, making it the first action. D. Place the patient on continuous cardiac monitor: Continuous cardiac monitoring is important to detect dysrhythmias associated with shock, but it does not immediately improve oxygenation or perfusion. Life-sustaining interventions such as oxygen delivery take higher priority.