Evaluation and Improvement of Knowledge of Medical Staff on Pulse Oximetry in Educational Hospitals

Background: Pulse Oximeter monitoring has become so common over previous decades that in some health care units, blood oxygen level is now considered as the fifth vital sign. However, it seems there is still some lack of knowledge and/or experience among medical staff operating pulse oximeter and interpreting its results. The aim of this study was to investigate and compare the knowledge on Pulse Oximetry among medical staffs working with these devices. Methods: A standardized questionnaire on the performance of pulse oximetry and influencing factors was provided to a group consisting of nurses, pediatric residents, respiratory therapists and anesthetic technicians before and after an educational program on pulse oximetry. Responses to the questionnaires before and after the course were analyzed and compared. Results: A total number of 101 participants completed the questionnaires which constituted 31 pediatric residents (31%), 51 nurses (50%), 7 respiratory therapists (7%) and 12 anesthetic technicians (12%). Pre course and post course mean knowledge score on pulse oximetry in participants were 10.93 ± 4.55 and 14.07 ± 1.98, respectively (p< 0.001). Implementing educational program on pulse oximetry, increased the percentage of mean knowledge score on pulse oximetry significantly from 74% to 93% (p<0.001). Conclusion: Educational course for pulse oximetry, significantly improved the knowledge scores among participants in our study. Continuing medical education (CME) and adequate training programs to improve the lack of knowledge on pulse oximetry is highly recommended.