In the treatment of Acute Decompensated Heart Failure (ADHF), what is the initial management for oxygen levels below 90%?

In the treatment of Acute Decompensated Heart Failure (ADHF), when a patient presents with oxygen levels below 90%, the initial management focuses on ensuring adequate oxygenation. Supplemental oxygen is the most appropriate intervention in this scenario.

Administering supplemental oxygen helps improve the patient's oxygen saturation, which is essential since low oxygen levels can lead to further complications, including decreased organ function and increased myocardial strain. By correcting hypoxemia promptly, healthcare providers can stabilize the patient and provide a better foundation for further treatment strategies.

Other options, such as oral medication, are typically not effective in acute settings, as they would not address the immediate concern of low oxygen levels. Cardiac transplant is generally reserved for end-stage heart failure and would not be considered an initial management step for acute cases. Intravenous hydration may worsen symptoms in ADHF when fluid overload is a concern, as most patients require diuresis rather than fluid replacement during acute decompensation. Thus, administering supplemental oxygen becomes the first critical step in managing hypoxemia in these patients.