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Fishing industry stakeholders have unique and important contributions to make to fisheries research. Co-operative and collaborative research approaches between science and industry are important to facilitate the documentation of fishers' knowledge and the co-creation of common understandings. Successful collaborations require open communication, trust and social capital, but numerous barriers exist to establishing these effective partnerships. This paper takes a narrative approach to reflect on the authors' experiences of engaging and collaborating with Irish fishers in the quest for the co-creation of knowledge, while considering how data from industry can best be used and integrated into scientific processes. This includes reflecting on barriers faced, in addition to motives and opportunities that have enabled this work to progress. Through case study examples, we reflect on issues surrounding misunderstandings regarding the roles of scientists and the scientific process, a lack of transparency, a lack of trust, historical/legacy issues, and contemporary pressures including the COVID-19 pandemic and impacts of Brexit. Building trust and active communication are identified as key elements to effectively co-create knowledge and common understanding. Trust is often developed in an informal setting, but more formalized processes, increased transparency and opportunities to engage, and institutional supports may further facilitate effective knowledge co-creation in fisheries. Copyright © 2023 Calderwood, Pedreschi, Ó Cuaig and Reid.
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Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the mental health of teens in many ways, and teens are experiencing higher rates of depression and anxiety. The extent of this impact is variable and dependent on many factors. Although the impact has been negative for many teens, some teens appear to be cope better than others and show more resilience. This talk will explore and discuss the protective factors for teens who are thriving. We will look at factors such as age, gender, specific characteristics, coping strategies, educational status, degree of social connectivity, and more. Method(s): A literature review of the current and emerging research related to the impact of quarantine and COVID-19 on the psychological and mental health of teens will be conducted. In addition, clinical cases and experiences will be reviewed. Two or 3 cases will be discussed to delineate the contextual factors around teens who are thriving. Result(s): Early in the pandemic, some teens appeared to be thriving. Teens who were socially anxious, bullied in school, and overwhelmed with academic and social demands did well in some instances. They saw school closures as a break that provided relief. In the fall, many of these teens, especially those not able to return to school in person, started to struggle. The teens who have continued to do well share some protective factors and characteristics. These include strong self-discipline traits, prosocial behaviors, the ability to maintain a consistent structure, routine and healthy habits of exercise, sleep and nutrition, positive parenting, good coping skills, ability to self-advocate and ask for help from teachers/family, strong social connectivity, involvement in organized activities/sports, and creative outlets. Access to mental health care and extra educational support were protective for many. This also brings up social equity issues that can increase the risk. Conclusion(s): The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a toll on the mental health of teens. Teens have had a significant disruption to their daily lives and their development. Some teens are coping better during these very stressful times. Understanding why and recognizing these protective factors can help inform care when working with teens and their families. PRE, ADOL, RF Copyright © 2022
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SESSION TITLE: Unique Uses of Pulmonary Function Tests SESSION TYPE: Rapid Fire Original Inv PRESENTED ON: 10/19/2022 11:15 am - 12:15 pm PURPOSE: Prevention of asthma exacerbations can be done through adequate self management at home. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of a portable spirometer for unsupervised home spirometry measurements among patients with asthma. METHODS: A single center, prospective, single-arm, open study recruited 25 patients with moderate or severe asthma. After a 45 min video training session by a respiratory therapist, patients performed daily spirometry at home with the Spirobank Smart MIR mobile spirometry system that was bluetooth connected to the KevaTalk app. Each spirometry examination was recorded and evaluated according to the ATS/ERS acceptability and repeatability criteria. Patients had to perform at least three technically acceptable maneuvers with the KevaTalk app guiding them if they had a good or bad blow. The best value of the three maneuvers were used for subsequent analyses. Patients also entered their daily check ins and symptoms via the KevaTalk Asthma app, tracked their controller and rescue medication use, filled up ATAQ questionnaires as well as were reminded of their action plans. Data obtained from spirometry was reviewed by nurses and pulmonologist and the Keva365 remote monitoring platform prompted alerts based on patient checkins, use of medication and PEF values in the red or yellow zone. Any escalations based on nurse review were reported to the office. RESULTS: Mean age of the patients was 57 years. 1155 spirometry sessions were completed over the duration of 9 months of the study. Data for FEV1, FEV6, PEF FEV1/FVC, as well as the Best Predicted and LLN values was reviewed daily for patients. Flow volume loops during the sessions were reviewed to identify if the home spirometry was done correctly and retraining was provided if needed. The reported values were tracked over the duration the patient was enrolled in the Keva program. 60.9% of patients were found to have peak flows in their respective red zones at least once and 87% were found to have peak flows in their yellow zone at least once, during the course of the study. If 3 consecutive values were in the yellow or red zone along with worsening of symptoms, the physician's office was informed for further course of action. CONCLUSIONS: The COVID-19 pandemic led to paucity of in office spirometry and face-to-face visits for asthmatic patients. Increasing the availability of spirometry with handheld devices along with a remote monitoring platform is useful for improving asthma control and reducing the risk of asthma-related hospital admissions and deaths. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Remote objective spirometry yields clinically meaningful information that helps with asthma patient management and prevent an exacerbation from becoming worse. DISCLOSURES: No relevant relationships by Karim Anis No relevant relationships by Varada Divgi No relevant relationships by Jyotsna Mehta No relevant relationships by Shail Mehta No relevant relationships by Denzil Reid
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SESSION TITLE: Unique Uses of Pulmonary Function Tests SESSION TYPE: Rapid Fire Original Inv PRESENTED ON: 10/19/2022 11:15 am - 12:15 pm PURPOSE: Asthma is one of the most common chronic respiratory illnesses affecting quality of life of patients, mortality as well as a high impact on health care utilization. In the era of the COVID19 pandemic, telemedicine and remote patient monitoring (RPM) have been heavily utilized by healthcare systems and providers for patient care. In our pilot program at a large US healthcare center, we enrolled patients known to have asthma to evaluate how RPM could be of value to both the patients and providers. METHODS: Patients included in the study had a confirmed diagnosis of moderate/severe asthma, were at least 18 years of age, and had access to an Android/iOS mobile device with internet access. The patients were excluded from the study for any conditions that would prevent them from using an app such as visual, cognitive, or other impairments that may prevent the patient from being able to participate. Patients were provided with a connected mobile spirometer, the KevaTalk app on their phones and educational introductory sessions during 9 months of the study. Each patient had their action plan and list of medications entered into the Keva365 platform by the nurse or the patient themselves. We provided a baseline patient questionnaire to assess usefulness and evaluate the app features, an ATAQ questionnaire for asthma control and a Smoking cessation questionnaire. Patients were asked to check in daily into the app as green (no symptoms), yellow (some symptoms) or red (bad symptoms). Patients were asked to perform spirometry using a connected spirometer. Remote monitoring protocols were set up for patients which included specific requirements for alerts being escalated to the pulmonologists. We monitored check-ins, alerts, and escalations during the study time window. RESULTS: A total of 25 patients were included in this pilot. Mean age was 57 and majority (23) were female. A baseline questionnaire rating the app, indicated that ease of check-in and ease of modification to the patient's asthma plan were the two highest rated features. 2066 total check ins (1550 green, 506 yellow and 10 red checkins) and 1155 spirometry sessions were recorded during this period. 484 alerts were recorded and evaluated by the monitoring team, of which 37% required an escalation to the physician requiring an intervention which included transfer to a medical facility, change in respiratory medication or further education. CONCLUSIONS: Patient driven engagement along with a well executed RPM program leads to increased compliance and improved outcomes among patients with respiratory illnesses. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Our findings demonstrate preliminary evidence of the clinical impact of respiratory focused remote monitoring combined with a process for triaging our pulmonary patients. Adoption by pulmonolgists and allergists of these digital remote programs can pave the way for reduced physican burden, improved outcomes and reduced costs. DISCLOSURES: No relevant relationships by Karim Anis No relevant relationships by Jyotsna Mehta No relevant relationships by Shail Mehta No relevant relationships by Denzil Reid
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Background: Although bullying and harassment among academic staff has been well researched, research on students bullying and harassing academic teaching staff (ie, contrapower harassment) is less common. Contrapower harassment has been on the rise in academia over the last decade, partly attributable to changes in the student– faculty staff relationship. This study aimed to understand better the extent and impact of students’ contrapower harassment on paramedic academic teaching staff within Australian universities, as well as actions and interventions to address it. Methods: This study used a two-phase mixed methods design. In phase 1, a convenience sample of paramedic teaching academics from 12 universities in Australia participated in an online questionnaire. In phase 2, an in-depth interview was conducted with nine participants from phase 1. Results: Seventy-six academic teaching staff participated in the study. Survey results showed that most academics surveyed had experienced harassment from paramedic students, with the highest incidence of harassment occurring during student assessment periods. Alarmingly, over 30% of the academics surveyed had been ‘stalked’ by a student and over 50% had felt powerless and helpless when students had attacked them on social media. Problematic students were identified as those who presented with an over-inflated sense of entitlement or with psychological states and traits that find it challenging to accept feedback and failure, and look to externalise their failures. Reasons for increases in contrapower harassment included a complex mix of consumer and demand-driven education, ondemand (and demanding) instant gratification and degree self-entitlement, and an increase in social media and online learning (particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020). Conclusion: Although most of the academics in this study experienced contrapower harassment by students, they also report that most students are level-headed and supportive, and do not carry out this type of harassment. Promoting student professionalism and reassessing student evaluations are starting points for addressing this type of harassment. Further research on the broader systemic issues that influence the contributors to contrapower harassment is needed.
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Introduction As COVID-19 has deepened health inequalities, we examine the COVID-19 experience of MSM as a population disproportionately affected by poor-health. Methods An online cross-sectional survey of MSM recruited via social media and dating applications for 3 weeks in November/December 2021. Questions included those on COVID-19 experience addressing: COVID-19 test history;when (if ever) tested positive;self-perception of ever having had COVID-19 and long-COVID. Logistic regression was used to assess sociodemographic and behavioural characteristics associated with these outcomes. Results Among 1,038 participants (median age: 41;88.1% white ethnicity): most reported ever testing for COVID-19 (95.0%;n=987), while 19.6% (193/987) reported a positive result [8.1% (80/987) testing positive since August 2021]. In those without a prior positive test (n=793) or testing history (n=52), an additional 148 participants reported self-perceived COVID, resulting in 32.8% (341/1038) with a COVID-19 history. In these, one-quarter (25.2%;86/341) reported long- COVID (8.3%;86/1038 of all) and 4.1% (14/341) hospitalisation history for COVID-related symptoms (1.8%;19/1038 of all). COVID-19 history was associated with residence in England (aOR:1.52,95%CI:1.02-2.28), degree-level education (aOR:1.33;95%CI:1.01-1.75), and vaccination status (aOR:2.98,95%CI:1.61-5.53, none/one dose vs. boosted). Long-COVID was associated with hospitalisation history (aOR:3.21;95%CI:1.09-9.45) and degree-level education (aOR:0.56;95%CI:0.36-0.99). Conclusion In this large community sample, one in five MSM reported testing positive for COVID-19, and one-third had a COVID-19 history. There was no evidence of age or ethnicityrelated inequalities, although long-COVID appears to exceed general population estimates. Continued monitoring of long- COVID in MSM is warranted as COVID-19 infections in the UK continue to increase.
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Introduction COVID-19 restrictions severely impacted in-person sexual health services, an important access point for condoms. We examine whether MSM in the UK had difficulty accessing condoms because of COVID-19 restrictions and associated factors. Methods Data on difficulty accessing condoms since the start of the pandemic (23rd March 2020) were collected as part of a short, online cross-sectional survey of MSM in November/ December 2021, recruited via social media and Grindr. Eligible participants were UK-resident MSM (cis/trans/non-binary person assigned male at birth - AMAB), aged ≥16 years who were sexually active (reported sex with men in the last year). Multivariable logistic regression to adjust for age and numbers of new sex partners was used to examine if and how reporting this outcome varied by key sociodemographic factors. Results Of all participants (N=1039), over 1 in 7 (13.3%;n=138) reported ever having difficulty accessing condoms, of whom, over half (55.8%;n=77) reported difficulty due to the pandemic (7.4% of all participants). Reporting difficulty accessing condoms was significantly higher among: Younger MSM (aged 16-29 years vs. ≥45;12.8% vs. 4.9%;aOR=2.78);trans/non-binary AMAB participants (vs. cisgender males;24.4% vs. 6.6%;aOR=4.86);bisexually-identifying MSM (vs. gay-identifying;11.1% vs. 6.5%;aOR=1.78);and MSM without degree level education (vs. having a degree;9.8% vs. 5.6%;aOR=2.01). Discussion A minority of sexually active MSM reported difficulty accessing condoms because of the pandemic, however, this was more common among those who already experience a disproportionate burden of poor sexual health. Interventions are needed to address these inequalities in accessing this important primary STI/HIV prevention measure. (Table Presented).
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Introduction MSM are disproportionately affected by health inequalities which may be exacerbated by COVID-19 and pandemic- related restrictions. We examine uptake of the COVID- 19 vaccine in MSM and assess factors associated with vaccination status. Methods An online cross-sectional survey of MSM recruited via social media and dating applications for 3 weeks in November/December 2021. Questions included those on vaccine offer and uptake (1 dose/2 doses/2 doses+booster). Logistic regression assessed factors associated with reporting full vaccination status (≥2 doses) by sociodemographic characteristics, HIV status, self-reported COVID history, and mental health indicators. Results Of 1,039 participants, 98.2% (n=1,020) reported everhaving been offered a COVID vaccine, of which 98.0% (1,000/1,020) reported ≥1 dose and 96.5% (985/1020) full vaccination status. In multivariate models, full vaccination status was associated with: age (aOR:1.04, 95%CI:1.01-1.06 per increasing year), gender (aOR: 0.26, 95%CI:0.09-0.72, gender minority vs cis male), degree-level education (aOR: 2.11,95% CI:1.12-3.98), employment since lockdown (aOR: 2.07,95% CI:1.08-3.94), single relationship status (aOR: 0.50,95% CI:0.25-1.00), self-reported COVID-19 history (aOR: 0.47, 95%CI:0.25-0.88), HPV vaccination history (aOR: 3.32, 95% CI:1.43-7.75), and self-reported low life-worth (aOR: 0.29, 95%CI:0.15-0.54). Conclusion This large community survey suggests COVID-19 vaccine uptake and coverage is high in MSM and exceeds general population vaccination estimates. However, inequalities appear to exist in some groups, including younger age-groups, gender minorities, and those with poorer mental health less likely to report full vaccination. Efforts are needed to limit COVID-related exacerbation of health inequalities in these groups who already experience a greater burden of poor health relative to other MSM.
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Introduction We examine changes in sexual behaviour, STI & HIV testing and testing need among MSM in the UK preand post-COVID-19 restrictions. Methods An online survey of 1,309 MSM recruited via social media and Grindr over three weeks in November/December 2021. Questions on sexual behaviour and service use had an approximate three-month lookback period corresponding to a period of no/limited COVID-19 restrictions. Unmet testing need was defined as reporting any new and/or multiple condomless anal sex (CAS) partners without a recent STI/HIV test. MSM recruited through Grindr who were UK-resident, cisgender, aged ≥16 years who reported sex with men in the last year (N=430) were compared to those from a related 2017 survey (N=1914) using multivariable regression to adjust for demographic differences between the samples. Results Compared to the 2017 survey, sexual risk behaviour was higher in the 2021 survey: ≥1 recent new sex partner (71.5% vs. 81.5%, respectively, aOR=1.80);≥2 recent CAS partners (30.1% vs. 48.8%, aOR=2.23). Reporting recent testing for STIs/HIV was also higher in late 2021 (37.3% vs. 42.6%, aOR=1.34;and 48.7% vs. 45.1%, aOR=1.27, respectively). However, there was no significant change in the proportion with unmet need for STIs (41.4% vs. 44.2%) and HIV (34.8% vs. 39.3%). Discussion These large, community surveys of MSM in the UK suggest greater sexual risk behaviour post-restrictions in 2021 compared to 2017. However, while we found no evidence of reduced service accessibility following the removal of most restrictions, there remains considerable unmet STI/HIV testing need among UK MSM. (Table Presented).
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Purpose Because health misinformation pertaining to COVID-19 is a serious threat to public health, the purpose of this study is to develop a framework to guide an online intervention into some of the drivers of health misinformation online. This framework can be iterated upon through the use of design-based research to continue to develop further interventions as needed. Design/methodology/approach Using design-based research methods, in this paper, the authors develop a theoretical framework for addressing COVID-19 misinformation. Using a heuristic analysis of research on vaccine misinformation and hesitancy, the authors propose a framework for education interventions that use the narrative effect of transportation as a means to increase knowledge of the drivers of misinformation online. Findings This heuristic analysis determined that a key element of narrative transportation includes orientation towards particular audiences. Research indicates that mothers are the most significant household decision-makers with respect to vaccines and family health in general;the authors suggest narrative interventions should be tailored specifically to meet their interests and tastes, and that this may be different for mothers of different backgrounds and cultural communities. Originality/value While there is a significant body of literature on vaccine hesitancy and vaccine misinformation, more research is needed that helps people understand the ways in which misinformation works upon social media users. The framework developed in this research guided the development of an education intervention meant to facilitate this understanding.
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COVID-19 related restrictions have impacted the dynamics of romantic relationships, with many cohabiting partners spending more time together and non-cohabiting partners much less. We explored qualitatively, the vulnerabilities (characteristics that decreased resilience) and stressors that impacted intimate relationships following the initial COVID- 19 lockdown. 45 semi-structured interviews were undertaken with participants who had completed a national web-panel survey (Natsal- COVID) and agreed to follow-up. Here we draw on the accounts of 19 participants in steady relationships who reported relationship difficulties. Analysis drew on Karney and Bradbury's 'Vulnerability-stress-adaptation' model. The sample comprised 12 women and 7 men, 13 were living with their partner and 6 were not. Participant's preexisting attachment, coping, and communication styles shaped their susceptibility to relationship difficulties. The stress of COVID-19, amplified by financial strain and health issues, affected couple's ability to adapt. In live-in relationships, childcare, divisions of housework, and a lack of space in which to unwind and escape from negative behaviours intensified pressures on relationship quality. One participant described these in the context of a violent relationship that worsened during lockdown, which she had managed to leave. Participants who did not live with their partners described struggling with phone/digital communication, physical distance, and a lack of certainty in the future of their relationship. In adapting to 'pandemic life', tensions arose over how much time to spend together. Those in non-cohabiting relationships were torn between balancing risks of COVID-19 against those of not seeing each other, with many reporting feeling they had placed their relationship on hold. For some, their sex life improved their adaptation, while for others it was a further source of stress. Understanding how existing vulnerabilities interact with a stressful event to shape adaptive processes in couples' relationships might provide insights for counsellors and healthcare providers to better support couples through COVID-19..
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Background The introduction of social distancing in response to the COVID-19 pandemic led to reduced STI/HIV service provision in the UK. We investigated sexual risk behaviours among MSM and unmet need for sexual healthcare during the pandemic. Methods A cross-sectional online survey (N=2,018) fielded via social media and dating apps (23/06-14/07/2020). We examined sexual behaviour and service use since lockdown (23/03/ 2020) and in the three previous months, and 'unmet need for STI testing' since lockdown (any new male partners and/or multiple condomless anal sex (CAS) partners without testing for STIs). We compared behaviours over the past three months between socio-demographically equivalent sub-samples recruited via Grindr into the present survey (N=956) and a 2017 survey (N=1,918). Results In 2020, 36.7% of participants reported new male partners and 17.3% reported multiple CAS partners since lockdown. Comparing time since lockdown vs previous three months, HIV testers were less likely to test at sexual health clinics (22.3% vs 70.2%) and more likely to use free online self-sampling services (64.3% vs 17.1%), and PrEP users were less likely to report PrEP use (21.7% vs 65.7%). Since lockdown, 25.3% of participants had unmet need for STI testing. Unmet need was more likely among Asian vs White participants (aOR=1.76,[1.14-2.72],p=.01);living in Scotland (aOR=2.02,[1.40-2.91],p<.001) or Northern Ireland (aOR=1.93,[1.02-3.63],p=.04) vs England;and living with HIV (aOR=1.83,[1.32-2.53],p<.001). Compared to 2017, the 2020 sub-sample were less likely to report new male partners (46.8% vs 71.1%, p<.001), multiple CAS partners (20.3% vs 30.8%, p<.001) and unmet need (32.8% vs 42.5%, p<.001) in the past three months. Conclusion We found ongoing potential STI/HIV transmission among MSM during the initial UK lockdown, despite a reduction in sexual activity, and potential inequalities in access to sexual healthcare. These findings will support public health planning to mitigate against health risks during and after the COVID-19 response..
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BackgroundWorldwide, efforts to control SARS-CoV-2 transmission have included lockdowns and restrictions on contact with others, including sexual partners. Our research (Natsal-COVID) indicates that in the UK, 10% of people aged 18–59 had physical or sexual contact with a romantic or sexual partner outside their household (PCOH) during a period in which contact was limited. We explored motivations and decision-making among people reporting PCOH in the four months following the initial national lockdown on 23rd March 2020.MethodSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 18 individuals reporting PCOH during a period in which physical distancing measures were in place. Participants were recruited through a large, quasi-representative survey investigating sexual behaviour in the UK during the COVID-19 pandemic (Natsal-COVID). Interviews were analysed thematically.ResultsParticipants were single (n=8) or in long-term, non-cohabiting, relationships (n=10). While participants in the two groups differed in their reported motivations for PCOH, all demonstrated complex and individualised decision-making, weighing up risks such as SARS-CoV-2 transmission, judgement of peers, and benefits, including feelings of security and improved mental health. For those in relationships, the primary motivation was continuity: participants expected to continue seeing their romantic partner. Participants rationalised this contact as ‘low risk’ in relation to other ‘risks’ of COVID-19 exposure, and reduced other activities (such as shopping, seeing friends) to maintain this contact. For single participants, loneliness and boredom were reported as the primary motivators for PCOH, with dating apps often used to facilitate contact. For both groups, evidence of considered decision-making was clear, with participants referencing government guidance, personal situations, and risk when describing their deliberations.ConclusionIndividuals did not make decisions about PCOH lightly. However, physical contact with partners was considered important and thus rationalised. Public health policy-makers must therefore consider sexual behaviour and needs for physical contact in designing effective future public health messaging.
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BackgroundCOVID-19 restrictions led to widespread disruption of SRH services in Britain following the first national lockdown (23/3/2020). One-in-ten people who tried to access SRH services during reported being unable to do so (Natsal-COVID). We used mixed-methods research to quantify unmet need and explore its context and impact.Methods6,657 participants aged 18–59 years completed a web-panel survey (29/07–10/08/20). Quota-based sampling and weighting enabled a quasi-representative population sample to be achieved. Quantitative analysis focused on participants’ challenges accessing contraception and STI-related services since lockdown. We conducted 23 in-depth interviews with participants, 15 who reported not receiving an SRH service and eight who discussed this in a different topic interview.ResultsReasons for not receiving STI-related (n=103) or contraception services (n=144) despite need included that appointments were unavailable (STI-related services: 28.6% (95%CI:19.5–39.8)/Contraception services 36.3% (28.1% – 45.4%)), were cancelled (22.8% (14.9%- 33.3%)/23.9% (16.8%-32.8%) or services were closed (21.2% (13.7%-31.4)/26.1% (19.1%-34.5%). Discomfort with using online/telephone services was more common amongst those not receiving STI-related services 26.0% (17.4%-36.9%) than for contraception services 6.7% (3.4%-12.8%).Interviewees described how some services were unavailable, while others were disrupted. Many were offered and received alternatives to in-person service (e.g. telephone/online) and some had to use different contraceptive methods. Most understood attempts to limit SARS-CoV-2 transmission and found alternatives convenient, though others saw them as inferior due to interaction limitations. Tenacity was required to access some services. Several participants described how they had avoided or deprioritised their own needs. Fears of contracting COVID-19 and of judgement for having sex against restrictions deterred help-seeking.ConclusionWhile some people were unable to access an anticipated service, many were offered alternatives with varied consequences. Services may need to adapt further to improve access by offering efficient face-to-face and remote provision while emphasising lack of judgement and validating help seeking.
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Introduction: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many medical and surgical wards were reassigned as COVID-19 cohort wards to accommodate the number of patients admitted with the virus. Nurses and healthcare assistants (HCAs) from various departments and backgrounds were redeployed to these areas. Within the geriatrics population, patients with severe COVID-19 often have high oxygen requirements and can rapidly deteriorate. Therefore, we conducted a quality improvement project within the geriatrics COVID-19 ward focused on improving patient safety by improving oxygen administration to patients. We also aimed to enhance the knowledge and confidence levels of nurses and HCAs in regards to oxygen administration. Method: From April-July 2020, we compared the oxygen that was administered to COVID-19 patients against the oxygen therapy that was documented on observation charts. This included whether the correct type of device, flow rate and target oxygenation saturations were used.We carried outmultiple Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) cycles including a staff education session on oxygen administration, placed an oxygen guidelines poster on each patient's bedside, administered a short quiz and distributed reminder lanyard cards. We also conducted a staff survey comparing knowledge and confidence on oxygen administration before and after an education session. Results: Overall there has been an improvement in oxygen charting and administration after 4 PDSA cycles. There is 100% correct use of oxygen device and correct setting of oxygen flow rate after the 2nd and 3rd PDSA cycles. After the teaching session, all staff reported feeling more confident in oxygen management. Based on the audit data and quiz results, there was an improvement in knowledge of oxygen administration. Conclusions: We have demonstrated that by using simple time-efficient and cost-effective interventions, improvements can be made in oxygen administration and subsequently patient safety.This has the potential to influence prognostic outcomes among the geriatrics population with COVID-19.