What is the recommended action if an air embolism is suspected?

When an air embolism is suspected, the recommended action is to turn the patient on their left side and notify a physician. This position helps facilitate the escape of air from the systemic circulation to the right atrium and potentially reduces the risk of further complications. Positioning the patient in this manner can aid in preventing the air bubble from migrating to critical areas such as the brain or coronary arteries, thus minimizing the risk of serious outcomes.

Notifying a physician is crucial because an air embolism can lead to life-threatening situations, and immediate medical intervention may be necessary. The physician can order further diagnostic assessments and appropriate treatments to address the air embolism effectively.

While administering supplemental oxygen and starting cardiopulmonary resuscitation might be indicated in specific scenarios of respiratory distress or cardiac arrest, they are not the immediate priorities when an air embolism is suspected. The upright position is also not advisable in this context as it does not assist in preventing the complications associated with air embolisms.