NURSES’ KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE TOWARDS THE ADMINISTRATION OF OXYGEN THERAPYTHE CRITICALLY ILL PATIENTS

Abstract

Oxygen therapy is a vital intervention in critical care, but its administration requires adequate knowledge and adherence to protocols to ensure patient safety. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of nurses regarding oxygen therapy in a tertiary care hospital in Pakistan. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 124 nurses. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, and associations between demographic factors and knowledge or practices were examined. Results: The findings revealed that while nurses demonstrated positive attitudes toward oxygen therapy, significant gaps in knowledge and inconsistent practices were observed. Only a portion of the participants exhibited an adequate understanding of advanced concepts such as oxygen titration and hyperoxia risks. Nurses with higher qualifications and greater clinical experience were more likely to adhere to best practices. Barriers such as limited resources, high patient loads, and lack of training programs were identified. Conclusion: There are critical gaps in the knowledge and practices of nurses regarding oxygen therapy in critical care. Targeted educational interventions, standardized guidelines, and improved access to resources are essential to enhance nurses’ competency and ensure optimal patient outcomes.