What should be the primary intervention for a patient exposed to hydrocarbon fumes who presents with headache, dizziness, and mild shortness of breath?

Providing continuous high-concentration oxygen is the primary intervention for a patient exposed to hydrocarbon fumes, particularly given the symptoms of headache, dizziness, and mild shortness of breath. Hydrocarbons can displace oxygen in the lungs and lead to hypoxia, so administering high-flow oxygen helps to increase the amount of oxygen available to the patient’s tissues and can alleviate the symptoms of respiratory distress and cognitive impairment caused by low oxygen levels.

The decision to focus on oxygen therapy is supported by the understanding that hydrocarbon exposure can affect the respiratory system, potentially leading to chemical pneumonitis or other respiratory complications. Ensuring that the patient receives adequate oxygenation quickly can be life-saving in cases of significant exposure or if symptoms worsen.

Other interventions, such as head-to-toe decontamination, could potentially be relevant if the patient had direct skin contact with hydrocarbons, but in this scenario—where the symptoms are more related to inhalation exposure—immediate oxygen therapy takes precedence. Medications like aspirin may help with headache relief but do not address the underlying issue of inadequate oxygenation. Intranasal naloxone is appropriate for opioid overdoses and is not indicated in a case of hydrocarbon exposure where respiratory symptoms are the primary concern.