Knowledge and associated factors regarding oxygen therapy among Emergency Department clinicians at an Ethiopian hospital: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background Oxygen therapy is life-saving, but inappropriate administration can contribute to morbidity and mortality. Knowledge gaps among emergency clinicians in resource-limited, high-acuity settings may contribute to suboptimal oxygen therapy practices, impacting patient safety. This study aimed to assess the level of knowledge and associated factors regarding oxygen therapy among clinicians at the adult Emergency Department of Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia. Methods We conducted an institution-based cross-sectional study from June to November 2025. A stratified random sample of 108 clinicians (51 residents, 57 nurses) completed an adapted, expert-reviewed, 15-domain questionnaire. Satisfactory knowledge was defined as a score of ≥60% based on Modified Bloom's criteria. Descriptive statistics, bivariable analysis, and multivariable logistic regression were used to analyze the data. Results Overall, 60.2% (65/108) achieved satisfactory knowledge. Using a higher cutoff of ≥80% ("good knowledge"), only 22.2% (24/108) achieved this level. The mean knowledge score was 71.9%. Residents outperformed nurses (70.6%vs 50.9%). Formal training showed the strongest adjusted association with satisfactory knowledge (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 37.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) 10.16–134.98), followed by guideline awareness (AOR 4.94, 95% CI 1.57–15.59) and professional role (resident vs. nurse: AOR 3.65, 95% CI 1.16–11.43). Conclusion While foundational oxygen therapy knowledge is present among slightly more than half of the Emergency Department clinicians, mastery-level understanding remains limited. Institutional prioritization of targeted, cadre-specific training and improved dissemination of existing clinical guidelines are essential to bridge these gaps and promote safe clinical practices.