Background: Pulse oximetry is a noninvasive method that enables rapid measurement of the
oxygen saturation of hemoglobin in arterial blood, it important for the quality of healthcare and
the infant's safety. The aim of the study: the aim of the current study was to develop and evaluate
guidelines protocol to enhance nurses’ performance for the care of children with respiratory
disorders on oxygen therapy and pulse oximetry. Design: A quasi-experimental design was used.
Setting: the study carried out in the NICU and PICU on the pediatric department at Maternity &
Children Hospital in Alexandria. Sample: A convenient sample of 100 nurses worked at the NICU,
and PICU in pediatric department were enrolled in this study. Tools: Three tools were used to
collect the study data, tool I; a structured interview to assess the basic characteristics of the nurses
as well their knowledge about respiratory disorders, pulse oximetry, and oxygen therapy. Tool II;
an observational checklist to evaluate nurses’ performance regarding pulse oximetry, and oxygen
therapy. Results: The study results revealed that after the implementation of guidelines protocol
the nurses had a satisfactory level of knowledge and performance regarding pulse oximetry and
oxygen therapy. Conclusion: The guidelines protocol of pulse oximetry and oxygen therapy has a
good effect on nurses’ knowledge and performance among children with respiratory disorder.
Recommendation: Continuous updates of nurses’ knowledge and performance regarding pulse
oximetry and oxygen therapy |
