Improvement of Oxygen Saturation in Patients with Airway Disturbance Using Nebulization Therapy in Semi-Fowler Position at Ibn Sina Islamic Hospital Emergency Department, Bukittinggi (2025)

Abstract

Airway disorders are a group of complex conditions caused by various factors and can affect any part of the respiratory tract. Nebulization therapy is an effective treatment method that delivers medication directly to the lungs in the form of fine aerosol particles. The semi-Fowler position (45°) utilizes gravity to facilitate lung expansion and reduce abdominal pressure on the diaphragm, thereby improving ventilation. Oxygen saturation reflects the percentage of hemoglobin bound to oxygen compared to its maximum carrying capacity.

This study aimed to describe the improvement in oxygen saturation among patients with airway disorders who received nebulization therapy in the semi-Fowler position in the Emergency Department of Ibn Sina Islamic Hospital, Bukittinggi, in 2025. This research used a descriptive survey design. The population consisted of patients with airway disorders receiving nebulization therapy in the emergency room. A total of 96 respondents were selected using an accidental sampling technique, with inclusion criteria of patients receiving mucolytic and bronchodilator therapy. Data were collected using a nebulization standard operating procedure and pulse oximetry to measure oxygen saturation.

The results showed that 59 respondents (61.46%) experienced an improvement in oxygen saturation after receiving nebulization therapy in the semi-Fowler position. These findings indicate that nebulization therapy combined with the semi-Fowler position is effective in increasing oxygen saturation in patients with airway disorders. The semi-Fowler position supports optimal aerosol distribution, enhances lung expansion, and improves alveolar ventilation, contributing to increased oxygen saturation.