During fiberoptic bronchoscopy, a patient's SpO2 drops from 91% to 87%. Which of the follow-ing actions would be appropriate?

1. Apply suction through the scope's open channel.
2. Give oxygen through the scope's open channel.
3. Increase the cannula or mask oxygen flow.
a. 1 and 2 only
b. 2 and 3 only
c. 1 and 3 only
d. 1, 2, and 3

ANS: B
If desaturation occurs, the FiO2 should be increased with an oxygen therapy device. Alternative-ly, the procedure can be temporarily halted, and oxygen can be given through the scope's open channel. The latter technique has the advantage of defogging the scope and diffusing any secre-tions. Suctioning for brief periods will help reduce the incidence or severity of hypoxemia.