Clinical nurses' knowledge level on pulse oximetry: A descriptive multi-centre study

Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the level of knowledge on pulse oximetry among nurses. Understanding this is important because insufficient knowledge can lead to misinterpretation of pulse oximetry readings and consequently compromise patient safety. Research methodology: The study was cross-sectional and included a sample of 198 nurses. A modified questionnaire by Kiekkas et al. was used as the research tool. Setting: Intensive care units, anaesthesiology and emergency departments in two tertiary health care institutions in Serbia. Main outcome measures: Principles of pulse oximeter function and conditions that can affect accuracy and reliability of pulse oximetry readings. Results: The lower percentage of correct responses about principles of pulse oximetry function was found in items related with the alarm reliability and understanding technical limitations. The factors that might affect pulse oximetry readings which were not identified by the nurses at a satisfactory level were the body position and specific kinds of ambient light. The mean scores of knowledge level were significantly different regarding departments (p=0.015). Conclusion: Since this study revealed a lower level of knowledge in some aspects of pulse oximetry, it can be concluded that the generally firm belief that "experience is everything" can be challenged. This fact is important for the quality of health care and the patient's safety. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.