Use Of High Flow Nasal Cannula Oxygen Therapy In Adult Patients

Abstract

High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygen therapy is an emerging non-invasive respiratory support modality for adults. HFNC delivers heated, humidified oxygen via nasal prongs, generating mild positive airway pressures. Several studies have demonstrated HFNC improves oxygenation, ventilation and relieves dyspnea compared to conventional oxygen delivery. Evidence exists supporting feasibility and potential benefits of HFNC in clinical scenarios such as acute hypoxemic respiratory failure, post-extubation, pre-oxygenation and COPD exacerbations. However, well-defined patient selection criteria and robust outcomes data are still limited. HFNC produces physiological effects through mechanisms like dead space washout and reduced airway resistance. Practical guidelines inform best practice, yet additional high-quality research is needed to optimize HFNC clinical application and define efficacy across settings. Overall, HFNC oxygen shows promise but requires further evaluation to establish definitive applications.