Science and Research

[A cross-sectional study in three German hospitals regarding oxygen therapy characteristics]

BACKGROUND:  Oxygen (O2) therapy is one of the most commonly applied medications in German hospitals and rescue services. Both hypoxemia and hyperoxemia can be associated with complications. There is currently a lack of reliable data on the use, documentation and surveillance of O2-therapy in German hospitals. METHODS:  We conducted a cross-sectional study on the use of O2 in three hospitals in Hannover, Germany. RESULTS:  Of 343 patients included in this study, 20 % received O2 therapy. Twenty-nine percent of patients receiving O2 were at increased risk for hypercapnia. A standard operating procedure (SOP) for O2 therapy was available in only 68 % of patients. In 22 % patients the applied O2-therapy was appropriate in the context of the documented vital parameters. A complete documentation of vital parameters was conducted in only 30 % of all patients and 41 % of patients receiving O2-therapy. A surveillance of O2-therapy using capillary or arterial blood gas analysis was performed in 76 % of patients. Here, 64 % of patients showed normoxemia, 17 % showed hyperoxemia and 19 % of patients showed hypoxemia. The only identifiable predictor for an adequate O2-therapy was a previous invasive ventilation. DISCUSSION:  Our data point towards and inadequate prescription, application and documentation of O2 therapy. The recently released German S3-guideline should be used to increase awareness among physicians and nursing staff regarding the use of O2-therapy to improve O2 therapy and consequently patient safety.

  • Joean, O.
  • Vanʼt Klooster, M. P.
  • Kayser, M. Z.
  • Valtin, C.
  • Ewen, R.
  • Golpon, H.
  • Fühner, T.
  • Gottlieb, J.
Publication details
DOI: 10.1055/a-1821-5994
Journal: Dtsch Med Wochenschr
Pages: 62-69 
Number: 14
Work Type: Original
Location: BREATH
Disease Area: ROR
Partner / Member: MHH
Access-Number: 35868312

DZL Engagements

chevron-down