Oxygen therapy is critical to patient care, especially for those struggling with respiratory issues. This intervention increases the oxygen concentration in the lungs, enhancing the amount of oxygen transported to the body's tissues. One standard method of delivering supplemental oxygen is through a nasal cannula, a non-invasive device that provides low to medium oxygen concentrations.
Nasal Cannulas
A nasal cannula is a lightweight tube split into two prongs placed in the nostrils, connected to an oxygen source. This device allows patients to move about in bed, talk, cough, and eat without interrupting the oxygen flow. It can deliver up to 6 L/min; however, flow rates exceeding 4 L/min may cause air swallowing, irritation, and drying of the nasal and pharyngeal mucosa.
Equipment required equipment needed for this procedure includes:
Step-by-step procedure
Following a step-by-step guide can streamline the process of administering oxygen via a nasal cannula:
Benefits and Limitations
The nasal cannula offers several advantages: It is easy to apply, comfortable for long-term use, and allows patient mobility. However, high flow rates can cause dryness and irritation, and the delivered oxygen concentration can vary depending on the patient's breathing pattern.
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