Oxygen administration practice and associated factors among nurses in Ethiopia: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Supplemental oxygen therapy is a life-saving intervention that reduces cardiopulmonary strain and ensures adequate tissue oxygenation. However, inappropriate administration may result in either over- or under-oxygenation, both of which can cause patient harm. This study aimed to determine the pooled prevalence of supplemental oxygen therapy practice and its associated factors among nurses in Ethiopia. An extensive literature search was conducted from February 3 to 27, 2025, using databases such as Google Scholar, Web of Science, and PubMed, along with a manual search. The pooled prevalence was calculated using a random-effects model. Out of 980 studies retrieved, 12 studies involving a total of 2,884 nurses met the inclusion criteria. The pooled prevalence of nurses’ practice regarding supplemental oxygen therapy was 54.47 % (95 % CI: 43.18, 65.76, I 2 = 97.39 %, P < 0.001). Factors significantly associated with nurses’ practice of supplemental oxygen therapy include, receiving training (AOR = 5.94, 95 % CI: 1.90, 9.98, I 2 = 91.80 %, P < 0.001), availability of guidelines (AOR = 2.89, 95 % CI: 1.50, 4.28, I 2 = 83.99 %, P < 0.001), and work experience (AOR = 4.76, 95 % CI: 2.65, 6.86, I 2 = 87 %, P < 0.001). The pooled prevalence of supplemental oxygen therapy practice among nurses in Ethiopia was relatively low, indicating that nearly half did not adhere to appropriate practice standards. Availability of guidelines, receiving training, and greater work experience were significant determinants of appropriate practice of supplemental oxygen therapy. To improve patient safety and outcomes, it is crucial to implement regular, comprehensive in-service training, provision of clear and accessible oxygen therapy guidelines, and experience sharing platforms should be prioritized in all healthcare settings.