Final answer:
In the scenario where a patient has a normal pulse oximetry level of 96% and a normal respiratory rate of 14 breaths per minute while receiving oxygen, the appropriate action for the nurse is to continue monitoring the patient without altering the current oxygen flow rate.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question asks what action a nurse should take when a patient receiving oxygen via a simple face mask presents with a pulse oximetry level of 96% and a respiratory rate of 14 breaths per minute, while oxygen is being delivered at a flow rate of 4 L/min. A pulse oximetry level within the range of 95-100% is considered normal, indicating that the hemoglobin in the blood is adequately saturated with oxygen. Given that the patient's respiratory rate is within the normal range of 12-15 breaths per minute and the oximetry level is satisfactory, no immediate changes to the oxygen therapy are necessary. However, the nurse should continue to monitor the patient's respiratory rate and pulse oximetry levels to maintain proper oxygenation and detect any changes that may require intervention.