What is the first action to take after administering supplemental oxygen to a patient with crushing chest pain?

After administering supplemental oxygen to a patient experiencing crushing chest pain, the first action should be to assist the patient with their nitroglycerin, provided their systolic blood pressure is above 100 mm Hg. This is important because nitroglycerin is a vasodilator, meaning it helps to expand blood vessels, which can relieve angina and decrease the workload on the heart. However, it's critical to monitor and ensure that the patient's systolic blood pressure is not less than 100 mm Hg, as administering nitroglycerin in a patient with low blood pressure could lead to serious complications, including syncope or further cardiovascular instability.

This approach emphasizes patient safety and follows protocols that prioritize assessing vital signs before administering additional medications. It is a vital step in the management of a suspected myocardial infarction or angina pectoris. Administering nitroglycerin under inappropriate conditions could exacerbate the patient’s condition rather than alleviate it.