Flight Crew Air Transport Pilot (ATP)
Aircraft Equipment Problem Critical
Flight Crew Landed in Emergency Condition; Flight Crew Returned To Departure Airport; Flight Crew Inflight Shutdown
Chart Or Publication; Aircraft
Level at 11;000 feet [after departure] and accelerating; the L OIL PRESS LO annunciator illuminated.  I noted the Oil Pressure to be 35 PSI at this point and decreasing rapidly.  I was the Pilot Flying; and at this time I took the radios so Captain (CA) could run the appropriate checklists.  I requested return to [departure airport].  Complied with QRH OIL PRESSURE LOW.  Step 2a says 'with oil pressure less than 35 PSI and OIL PRESS LO Annunciator; Engine Shutdown Required. Refer to Engine failure/shutdown procedure this section'. Complied with QRH ENGINE FLAMEOUT/SHUTDOWN/FAILURE.  Secured the Left engine as oil pressure was dropping through about 10 PSI. CA notified the cabin crew with the nature of the [situation] and to prepare the cabin.  He also addressed the passengers that we would be returning to [departure airport] due to mechanical issues.As the pilot flying; I got the weather and decided [on] the best suitable runway.  I flew a visual approach; single engine. We ran all appropriate single engine approach and landing checklists.  Emergency vehicles met us on the taxiway; where we told them we could taxi to the gate.  They followed us there for safety purposes. Upon arriving at the gate; we were met by mechanics; who further informed us that a Chip Detector had 'blown' and we had lost all oil. QRH phraseology changes from one procedure to the next.  Needs to be uniform for faster compliance.When referring to a procedure in the QRH that should be followed next; it would be helpful to have the procedure number for faster look up.
A MD-88 First Officer reported returning to the departure airport after shutting down the left engine because of low oil pressure.