Factors Associated with Acute Deterioration in General Ward Patients Receiving Oxygen Therapy

Purpose : This study aimed to identify factors associated with acute deterioration within 48 hours among general ward patients receiving oxygen therapy at ≥4 L/min. Methods : This retrospective study was conducted at a single tertiary hospital. Demographic and clinical characteristics, oxygen therapy–related factors, and nursing care activities were collected from adult patients who received oxygen therapy at ≥4 L/min in general wards between January and December 2024. Acute deterioration was defined as unplanned intensive care unit admission or in-hospital death within 48 hours of oxygen therapy initiation. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed. Results : Respiratory comorbidity (OR=3.22, p =.023), delayed initiation of oxygen therapy at ≥4 L/min (＞24 hours after admission) (OR=3.33, p=.027), higher frequency of oxygen-related nursing care activities (OR=1.59, p =.001), and rapid response team activation (OR=3.40–4.21, p =.017) were independently associated with acute deterioration. Conclusion : Among general ward patients receiving oxygen therapy at ≥4 L/min, respiratory comorbidity, delayed oxygen initiation, rapid response team activation, and increased oxygen-related nursing care activities were significantly associated with acute deterioration. These findings highlight the importance of early risk recognition and proactive clinical management in high-risk patients.