The Primary Purpose of Nasal Cannula is to Deliver Supplemental Oxygen Through the Nose

 Nasal Cannula

Nasal Cannula is medical devices that are used when people are unable to get enough oxygen into their bodies to keep them functioning properly, whether due to a condition such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), another respiratory disorder, or an environmental change. Cannulas (and the oxygen sources to which they connect) are lightweight, simple to use, and inexpensive. They can be used in a variety of hospital settings, as well as at home and on the go.

The cannula is typically attached to the patient via a tube wrapped around the patient's ears or an elastic headband. The most basic and widely used type of adult Nasal Cannula transports 1-3 litres of oxygen per minute. Cannulas with smaller prongs designed for infant or neonatal use have a maximum flow rate of less than one litre per minute. Flow rates of up to 60 litres of air/oxygen per minute can be delivered via a humidified cannula with a wider bore.

A Nasal Cannula Market is typically used when small amounts of supplemental oxygen are required but there is no need for strict control of respiration, such as in oxygen therapy. Most cannulae can only deliver oxygen at low flow rates (up to 5 L/min), delivering an oxygen concentration of 28-44 percent. Rates greater than 5 L/min can cause patient discomfort, drying of the nasal passages, and possibly nose bleeds (epistaxis). Also, at flow rates greater than 6 L/min, the laminar flow becomes turbulent, and the oxygen therapy delivered is only as effective as at 5-6 L/min.

The Nasal Cannula is frequently used in elderly patients or patients who can benefit from oxygen therapy but do not need it to self-regulate their breathing. These patients do not require enough oxygen to warrant wearing a non-rebreather mask. It is especially useful in patients whose condition could be harmed by vasoconstriction, such as those suffering from strokes.