What should you do if you suspect a patient has an air embolism?

When a patient is suspected of having an air embolism, placing them in a left lateral position is critical because it can help to trap the air bubble in a less damaging location in the blood stream. This position is often referred to as the left lateral decubitus position. It can help reduce the risk of the air bubble traveling to the brain, heart, or lungs, thereby minimizing potential complications.

The left lateral position allows the air to remain at the right atrium during transport to the hospital, which can be beneficial while waiting for advanced medical care. This maneuver leverages gravity to help prevent further movement of the air bubble, which is key in managing the immediate care of a suspected air embolism.

The other options may be relevant in other medical scenarios but do not directly address the management of an air embolism as effectively as positioning the patient does. Administering normal saline IV, starting chest compressions, or providing high-flow oxygen may be necessary in some emergencies but are not specific interventions to mitigate the effects of an air embolism while waiting for further treatment.