ORCID
- Martin, Daniel: 0000-0001-6220-8235
Abstract
Recent data suggest a conservative approach to oxygen use in acutely unwell patients could be beneficial compared to more liberal use; guidance also suggests oxygen saturation (SpO2) should not exceed 96-98% in those receiving oxygen. Using data from 12 English intensive care units (ICUs), we demonstrated that in 29,657 patient episodes the average SpO2 was 96.2% and 97.2% for medical and surgical patients, respectively. Furthermore, 61% and 23% of patients receiving supplemental oxygen spent at least half their time in ICU with SpO2 readings >96% and >98% respectively. Patients managed on English ICUs tend to have a higher SpO2 than has been recommended for non-critically ill, acutely unwell patients.
DOI
10.1016/j.bja.2020.06.033
Publication Date
2020-09-01
Publication Title
British Journal of Anaesthesia
Volume
125
Issue
3
First Page
e277
Last Page
e279
ISSN
0007-0912
Embargo Period
2021-08-25
Organisational Unit
Peninsula Medical School
Recommended Citation
Post, B., Palmer, E., Harris, S., Singer, M., & Martin, D. (2020) 'Oxygenation of the critically ill in selected intensive care units in the UK: are we usual?', British Journal of Anaesthesia, 125(3), pp. e277-e279. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bja.2020.06.033
