Nurses’ Knowledge of Oxygen Therapy Administration and Monitoring at Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Calabar

Background: Safe and effective oxygen therapy requires nurses to possess both theoretical knowledge and practical skill in administration and monitoring, particularly in under-resourced Nigerian hospitals. Aim: This study assessed nurses' knowledge of oxygen therapy administration and monitoring at Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, Calabar, South South Nigeria. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey recruited 75 registered nurses through total enumeration. A validated 24-item knowledge questionnaire adapted from respiratory nursing guidelines was used. Descriptive statistics and chi-square were applied. Results: Sixty percent of nurses demonstrated adequate knowledge of oxygen delivery devices. However, knowledge of oxygen toxicity, flow rate adjustments, and SpO2 target ranges was adequate in only 42%. Nurses with critical care backgrounds performed significantly better. Gaps were most pronounced regarding humidification protocols and neonatal oxygen management. Conclusion: Nurse knowledge of advanced oxygen therapy concepts is insufficient. Findings support the need for clinical oxygen therapy training, procurement of functional pulse oximeters, and development of oxygen administration protocols tailored to available resources in Nigerian psychiatric hospitals. Keywords: oxygen therapy, nursing knowledge, Calabar, respiratory care, monitoring.