High Flow Nasal Cannula Features and Benefit

High flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is a medical device used for delivering high-flow oxygen therapy to patients with respiratory insufficiency or failure. It is a method of respiratory support that provides humidified and heated oxygen at a higher flow rate than traditional oxygen delivery systems.

Here are some key features and benefits of high flow nasal cannula:

Oxygen delivery: HFNC delivers a high flow of oxygen directly to the patient's nasal passages. The oxygen is delivered at a flow rate of up to 60 liters per minute (L/min), which is much higher than the typical flow rates of 1-6 L/min used in standard nasal cannulas.

Humidification and warming: The HFNC system includes a heated humidifier, which adds moisture to the oxygen and warms it to body temperature. This helps prevent drying of the airways and reduces discomfort for the patient.

Patient comfort: The high flow rate of oxygen from the nasal cannula helps to wash out the patient's exhaled carbon dioxide, reducing the feeling of suffocation. The warm and humidified oxygen is also more comfortable to breathe compared to cold, dry oxygen from other delivery systems.

Improved oxygenation: HFNC can effectively deliver a higher concentration of oxygen to the patient, improving oxygenation of the blood. The high flow rate also creates positive airway pressure, which can help open collapsed airways and improve ventilation.

Reduction in work of breathing: The positive airway pressure generated by HFNC can decrease the work of breathing for patients with respiratory distress. This is especially beneficial for patients with conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Oxygen titration: HFNC allows healthcare providers to adjust the flow rate and oxygen concentration to meet the specific needs of each patient. This flexibility helps in providing precise oxygen therapy tailored to the patient's condition.

Easy access for eating and talking: Unlike some other respiratory support devices, HFNC does not cover the patient's mouth, allowing them to eat, drink, and speak more easily while receiving therapy.

High flow heated respiratory humidifiers is mainly used to provide humidified and heated air-oxygen mixed gas to the nasal cavity directly through a nasal congestion catheter without sealing,which is higher than the peak inspiratory flow rate of the patient. The oxygen concentration is accurate and adjustable, which makes the breathing more comfortable . It is an effective respiratory therapy that is suitable for invasive or non-invasive patients with spontaneous breathing, not for life support.

Applicable department: Respiratory medicine, ICU, Emergency room, Neurology, Neurosurgery, Cardiothoracic surgery, Rehabilitation ward, Geriatric ward, etc.