High-Flow Nasal Cannula
When working with high-flow nasal cannula, a device that delivers heated, humidified oxygen at flow rates up to 60 L/min through nasal prongs. Also known as HFNC, it helps patients breathe easier by matching or exceeding their inspiratory demand and reducing dead space. The technology blends precise oxygen concentration with airflow, which can lower the work of breathing and improve comfort compared to standard nasal cannula.
Key Related Concepts
Understanding oxygen therapy, the broader practice of delivering supplemental oxygen to support respiration is essential, because HFNC is a specialized branch of this field. Another important tool is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), a non‑invasive method that maintains airway pressure throughout the breathing cycle. While CPAP provides constant pressure, HFNC offers variable flow that can be tapered based on patient needs. Conditions such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), a severe inflammatory lung injury that reduces oxygen exchange often benefit from HFNC because the high flow washes out carbon dioxide and improves alveolar recruitment. In neonatal intensive care, neonatal care, the specialized medical care for newborns, especially premature infants relies heavily on HFNC to provide gentle, precise oxygen without the pressure spikes that can damage delicate lung tissue.
Three core attributes define effective HFNC use: flow rate, temperature, and FiO₂ (fraction of inspired oxygen). Flow rate (measured in liters per minute) must be set above the patient’s peak inspiratory demand to prevent room air entrainment; typical adult settings range from 30–60 L/min, while pediatric protocols start lower and scale up. Temperature is usually kept between 34–37 °C to keep the gas humidified, which protects airway mucosa and reduces irritation. FiO₂ is adjusted based on pulse oximetry targets, often aiming for SpO₂ ≥ 92 % in adults and slightly higher in infants. These parameters work together—high flow reduces dead space, humidification maintains mucosal health, and precise FiO₂ ensures adequate oxygenation.
Practical considerations matter as much as the numbers. Proper sizing of nasal prongs prevents leaks; they should fit snugly but not cause skin breakdown. Monitoring is continuous: clinicians watch SpO₂, respiratory rate, and patient comfort, adjusting flow or FiO₂ in real time. Equipment checks include verifying heater‑fluid level, ensuring tubing integrity, and confirming alarm functions. When we talk about weaning, a gradual reduction of flow—often by 5–10 L/min every 12–24 hours—helps the patient transition to low‑flow oxygen or room air without sudden desaturation.
All these pieces—device basics, related respiratory tools, disease contexts, and hands‑on tips—form the backbone of the articles you’ll find below. Whether you’re a seasoned clinician searching for nuanced flow‑setting guidance or a caregiver looking for clear explanations of why a baby might be on HFNC, this collection brings together expert insights, real‑world comparisons, and step‑by‑step advice. Dive in to see how each topic expands on the concepts introduced here, giving you actionable knowledge for every stage of high‑flow nasal cannula therapy.