Automated oxygen administration versus manual control in acute cardiovascular care: a randomised controlled trial
Background Oxygen therapy is commonly administered to patients with acute cardiovascular conditions during hospitalisation. Both hypoxaemia and hyperoxia can cause harm, making it essential to maintain oxygen saturation (SpO2) within a target range. Traditionally, oxygen administration is manually controlled by nursing staff, guided by intermittent pulse oximetry readings. This study aimed to compare standard manual oxygen administration with automated oxygen administration (AOA) using the O2matic device. Methods In this randomised controlled trial, 60 patients admitted to a cardiac department with an acute cardiovascular condition requiring oxygen therapy were randomised to either standard care (manual oxygen administration) or AOA via the O2matic device. The primary outcome was the percentage of time spent within the desired SpO2 range (92%–96% or 94%–98%) over 24 hours. Results Patients had a mean age of 75.8±12.4 years, with an average SpO2 of 93%. Those in the AOA group (n=25) spe
