What action should you take if a patient is conscious and their airway is patent?

Administering oxygen as needed is the appropriate action to take when a patient is conscious and their airway is patent. In this scenario, the patient's ability to maintain their airway and demonstrate consciousness indicates that they may not require immediate life-saving interventions like chest compressions or rescue breaths. Instead, providing supplemental oxygen can help ensure that the patient maintains adequate oxygenation, especially if they exhibit signs of respiratory distress or other issues that could compromise their breathing.

Administering oxygen in a conscious and stable patient helps to optimize their conditions without causing unnecessary stress or interventions. It is a supportive measure, aiming to maximize the patient's oxygen intake and prevent any deterioration in their condition. Given that the patient's airway is clear, this action is safe and appropriate in a clinical context.