Short Answer 
The assessment of hypoxemia involves checking oxygen saturation levels; a reading of 94% indicates that intubation may be necessary. Additionally, evaluating the patient’s mental status is crucial as confusion can impede their ability to maintain an airway, and severe facial injuries can further complicate breathing, necessitating urgent intubation to protect the airway.
Step 1: Assess Hypoxemia
In trauma cases, it is crucial to evaluate the patient’s oxygen saturation levels. A pulse oximetry reading of 94% indicates hypoxemia, meaning the patient is struggling to maintain adequate oxygen levels. This reading is one of the key indicators that can lead to the need for immediate intubation to ensure the airway is protected and the patient gets enough oxygen.
Step 2: Evaluate Mental Status
Confusion in a patient can signal a decrease in their level of consciousness, which may hinder their ability to maintain their airway. Patients who are unable to respond appropriately or are disoriented are at a higher risk for airway obstruction. It’s essential to assess their mental status alongside physical injuries to determine the urgency of intubation.
Step 3: Consider Facial Injuries
Severe facial injuries can compromise the airway and make it difficult for the patient to breathe independently. These types of injuries often require thorough examination and could necessitate immediate intubation to ensure that the airway remains patent. The presence of facial trauma is a critical factor in the decision-making process for airway management in trauma patients.