104 Oxygen prescription on a specialist geriatric Ward

Abstract

Abstract Background Oxygen delivery is an extremely useful tool in treating hypoxaemia. While it has beneficial effects when administered at correct doses it can also lead to serious adverse outcomes when not delivered correctly. Given this, oxygen should be treated as any other drug we use in practice and prescribed accordingly. Studies done around the world show very poor rates of appropriate oxygen prescription. This is particularly important on a ward which specialises in care for the older adult, where neurocognitive disorders, delirium and multi-morbidity is common. Methods An audit was carried out on all patients admitted to the specialist geriatric ward over a two week period, documenting whether the patient was receiving oxygen therapy and if so whether it was charted appropriately. Following this education was provided to staff on the ward and posters were hung at the oxygen ports as a reminder to ensure oxygen was prescribed in the Kardex. A re-audit was then carried out, measuring any change in practice. Results Following the initial audit, 120 new patients were admitted to the ward, 25 of which were receiving oxygen therapy (21%). Of the 25, only 7 had oxygen prescribed (28%). Following staff education and the introduction of reminder posters at the oxygen ports a reaudit was carried out. 103 new patients were admitted to the ward, 18 of which were receiving oxygen therapy (17%). Of the 18, 17 had oxygen prescribed appropriately (94%). Conclusion Simple reminders can influence behaviour greatly. Appropriate oxygen prescription improved three-fold with an inexpensive, simple intervention.