What rate should you administer oxygen to a 16-year-old asthmatic female in tripod position with SpO2 of 79%?

Administering oxygen at 10 liters per minute via a nonrebreather mask is the appropriate choice for a 16-year-old asthmatic female with an oxygen saturation (SpO2) of 79%. This indicates severe hypoxemia, and immediate intervention is necessary to improve her oxygen levels.

The nonrebreather mask is designed to deliver high concentrations of oxygen. When applied correctly, it can provide around 90-100% oxygen. This is especially crucial for someone in respiratory distress, as seen in asthmatic patients who may be having an acute exacerbation. The tripod position suggests that the patient is attempting to maximize lung expansion and airflow, which further indicates a need for aggressive oxygen therapy.

Other options, like using a nasal cannula at low flow rates or a simple mask, would not adequately address the significant hypoxemia indicated by the low SpO2 level. Monitoring oxygen saturation alone, without actively providing supplemental oxygen, would not be sufficient given the acute nature of the patient's condition.