To whom should a nasal cannula be given?

A nasal cannula is a device used to deliver supplemental oxygen to patients who are breathing but may require additional support due to various medical conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, or other respiratory issues. This method is appropriate for patients who can breathe on their own but need assistance with oxygen levels.

It is not suitable for individuals who are experiencing cardiac arrest (first choice) because during cardiac arrest, the primary need is immediate high-quality CPR and defibrillation, rather than oxygen administration. The third choice is incorrect because nonbreathing patients require advanced airway management and cannot benefit from a nasal cannula. The last option is also not accurate because using a nasal cannula indiscriminately on all patients may not address the specific needs and conditions of those who are critically ill or unresponsive. Thus, the correct answer focuses on providing oxygen to patients who are capable of breathing on their own.