What is the priority treatment for an infant with a respiratory rate of 68 and low oxygen saturation?

In the scenario of an infant with a respiratory rate of 68 breaths per minute and low oxygen saturation, the priority treatment focuses on addressing the immediate need for adequate oxygenation. Administering oxygen therapy is essential in this case because low oxygen saturation indicates that the infant is not receiving sufficient oxygen, which can lead to hypoxia and further respiratory distress. Oxygen therapy is a quick, effective measure to improve the oxygen levels in the bloodstream and stabilize the infant's condition, potentially reversing any adverse effects of hypoxia.

Sedative therapy is not appropriate in this context, as it could further depress respiratory function and worsen the infant’s oxygenation status. Ordering a chest CT scan, while useful for diagnosing certain conditions, would not provide immediate relief for breathing difficulties or low oxygen saturation. Transferring the infant to a higher level of care may eventually become necessary, particularly if the oxygen therapy does not adequately resolve the issue, but it is not the first step in addressing the urgent need for oxygen. Therefore, focusing on oxygen therapy as a priority intervention is crucial for the management of respiratory distress in this infant.