What should a paramedic do for a patient who has fainted from inhaling noxious fumes?

When a patient has fainted due to inhaling noxious fumes, providing oxygen is a critical response. Noxious fumes can lead to hypoxia, where the body and brain are deprived of adequate oxygen. Administering oxygen helps restore normal oxygen levels, counteracting the adverse effects of inhalation of harmful substances.

Oxygen therapy can also improve the patient's overall condition and support recovery by ensuring that vital organs receive the oxygen they need to function effectively. In cases of fainting, especially due to environmental toxins, stabilizing the patient’s condition through oxygenation is essential before any transport or additional interventions.

The other options presented may not effectively address the immediate needs of the patient. An injection might be useful in other medical emergencies, but it is not a standard first response for fainting from inhaled fumes. Applying a warm compress does not directly remedy the underlying issue of oxygen deprivation. Transporting the patient for stomach pumping is only appropriate if the patient ingested a toxic substance, not necessarily for inhalation incidents. Thus, providing oxygen is the most direct and effective course of action in this scenario.