Understanding Nursing Interns’ Perception of Oxygen Therapy and Its Risks: A Cross-Sectional Descriptive Analysis
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31674/mjn.2026.v17i03.003Abstract
Background: Oxygen therapy is an essential and potentially life-saving component of patient care; however, improper administration may lead to serious adverse outcomes. Nurses play a critical role in ensuring the safe delivery of oxygen, monitoring patients closely, and preventing related complications. This study aimed to assess nursing interns’ perceptions of oxygen therapy and the potential hazards associated with its misuse. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted in training hospitals within the Qassim region, Saudi Arabia, between November 15, 2023, and March 15, 2024. A simple random sampling technique was used to select all eligible nursing interns, resulting in a total of 43 participants. Data were collected using a validated and reliable instrument composed of two parts: demographic characteristics and perception levels regarding oxygen therapy and its associated hazards. Data was analyzed using the chi-square test with Monte Carlo (MC) correction. The study adhered to the STROBE guidelines for cross-sectional research. Results: A total of 43 female nursing interns aged 21–22 years participated in the study. Of these, 61.4% reported that the training they received was sufficient, and 65.1% had participated in in-service training in both college and hospital settings. Despite this, 65.1% demonstrated an unsatisfactory perception of oxygen therapy (mean ± SD = 7.49 ± 2.32), and 72.1% exhibited poor perception of its hazards (mean ± SD = 6.77 ± 2.40). A statistically significant association was identified between interns’ perception levels and their experience in administering oxygen therapy (χ² = 7.22, p ≤ 0.05). Conclusion: Nursing interns exhibited insufficient understanding of oxygen therapy and its potential risks. These findings underscore the need for continuous, well-structured, and competency-based training programs to improve their knowledge and support the safe administration of oxygen therapy.
Keywords:
Hazard, Interns, Oxygen Therapy, PerceptionDownloads
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