[Domiciliary oxygen therapy. Study of use in a rural area]

To assess use of long-term oxygen therapy (LTOT) in a rural community we conducted a transversal study.

Data was collected in patients' homes, and based on the total number of patients with LTOT, with reference to indication, follow-up and correct completion; two oximetries were carried out, breathing room air, and after breathing oxygen. Of the 70 patients with LTOT, 7 were considered not eligible, the prevalence was found to be: 179/100,000 inhabitants. Sixteen patients were excluded, 6 with exacerbation, and 10 who were unable to be contacted at their home address. The sample was composed of 45 patients. The most frequent diagnosis was COPD (34/45). Indication of LTOT was carried out in the hospital in 40 (89%) patients, and in the health centre in 5 (11%).

In 22 (49%) the treatment could be considered acceptable, and only in 21 (46%), the indication of LTOT was correct. Oxygen was administered at least 15 hours/day in 42% of cases (19/45). Patients with periodical check-ups, maintained better pharmacological treatment, although there were no significant differences in the carrying out of LTOT. Using oximetry, it was shown that in 27 patients the SaO2 was lesser than or equal to 88%, and that in 23 cases (85%) administration of oxygen, corrected the saturation. Only in 11 (24%) the indication criteria and adequate administration of LTOT were carried out, as well as correction of the hypoxemia following administration of oxygen.

The prevalence was found to be very high. The results show this form of treatment as being very badly controlled. In a rural community, the pulse oximetry is useful in the follow-up of TLOT.