A nasal cannula is a skinny, versatile tube that’s inserted into the nostril to ship oxygen. It’s a frequent methodology of oxygen supply for individuals who want supplemental oxygen, reminiscent of these with power obstructive pulmonary illness (COPD) or pneumonia. Nasal cannulas are additionally used to manage medicines, reminiscent of bronchodilators and antibiotics.
Nasal cannulas are comparatively straightforward to make use of and could be inserted with out the necessity for particular coaching. Nonetheless, it is very important observe the producer’s directions fastidiously to make sure that the cannula is inserted appropriately and is delivering the correct quantity of oxygen.
There are a couple of various kinds of nasal cannulas obtainable, together with:
- Normal nasal cannulas have two prongs which can be inserted into the nostrils.
- Excessive-flow nasal cannulas ship the next movement of oxygen than normal nasal cannulas and are sometimes used for individuals who want extra oxygen help.
- Transtracheal oxygen catheters are inserted via the neck and into the trachea. They’re used for individuals who want long-term oxygen remedy.
The kind of nasal cannula that’s used will rely upon the person affected person’s wants.
1. Positioning
Correct positioning is necessary when inserting a nasal cannula to make sure that the cannula is inserted appropriately and is delivering the correct quantity of oxygen. If the affected person shouldn’t be sitting upright, the cannula will not be inserted to the proper depth and should not ship the correct quantity of oxygen. If the affected person’s head shouldn’t be tilted again, the cannula will not be inserted within the right route and should not ship the oxygen to the proper a part of the lungs.
As well as, correct positioning may help to scale back the chance of issues, such asand irritation. By following the steps above, you’ll be able to assist to make sure that the nasal cannula is inserted appropriately and is delivering the correct quantity of oxygen.
Listed below are some suggestions for positioning the affected person for nasal cannula insertion:
- Have the affected person sit upright in a chair with their head barely tilted again.
- Ask the affected person to take a deep breath and maintain it.
- Gently insert the nasal cannula into the affected person’s nostril, pointing the prongs in the direction of the again of the throat.
- Advance the nasal cannula to a depth of about 1 to 2 inches.
- Launch the affected person’s breath and ask them to breathe usually.
As soon as the nasal cannula is in place, you need to examine the oxygen movement price to make sure that the affected person is receiving the correct quantity of oxygen.
2. Depth
The depth to which the nasal cannula is inserted is a vital consider making certain that the affected person is receiving the correct quantity of oxygen. If the cannula is inserted too deeply, it might irritate the nasal passages and trigger discomfort. If the cannula shouldn’t be inserted deeply sufficient, it might not ship the correct quantity of oxygen to the lungs.
The right depth for insertion of the nasal cannula is about 1 to 2 inches. This depth will make sure that the prongs of the cannula are positioned simply contained in the nostrils, the place they’ll ship oxygen on to the lungs.
There are a couple of easy steps which you can observe to make sure that the nasal cannula is inserted to the proper depth:
- Have the affected person sit upright with their head barely tilted again.
- Ask the affected person to take a deep breath and maintain it.
- Gently insert the nasal cannula into the affected person’s nostril, pointing the prongs in the direction of the again of the throat.
- Advance the nasal cannula to a depth of about 1 to 2 inches.
- Launch the affected person’s breath and ask them to breathe usually.
As soon as the nasal cannula is in place, you need to examine the oxygen movement price to make sure that the affected person is receiving the correct quantity of oxygen.
3. Oxygen Circulate
Oxygen movement is a vital part of nasal cannula use as a result of it determines the quantity of oxygen that’s delivered to the affected person. The oxygen movement price needs to be set in line with the affected person’s wants, bearing in mind components such because the affected person’s respiratory price, oxygen saturation ranges, and exercise degree.
If the oxygen movement price is just too low, the affected person might not obtain sufficient oxygen to satisfy their wants. This will result in signs reminiscent of shortness of breath, fatigue, and confusion. If the oxygen movement price is just too excessive, it might trigger discomfort and irritation of the nasal passages. In some instances, excessive oxygen movement charges also can result in a situation known as oxygen toxicity, which might harm the lungs.
You will need to observe the physician’s orders when setting the oxygen movement price. The physician will decide the suitable movement price primarily based on the affected person’s particular person wants.
Listed below are some suggestions for setting the oxygen movement price:
- Begin with a low movement price and steadily improve it till the affected person’s oxygen saturation ranges attain the specified vary.
- Monitor the affected person’s respiratory price and oxygen saturation ranges carefully.
- Regulate the oxygen movement price as wanted to take care of the affected person’s oxygen saturation ranges within the desired vary.
By following the following tips, you’ll be able to assist to make sure that the affected person is receiving the correct quantity of oxygen.
FAQs about Nasal Cannulas
Nasal cannulas are a typical methodology of delivering oxygen to sufferers who want supplemental oxygen. They’re skinny, versatile tubes which can be inserted into the nostril. Nasal cannulas are comparatively straightforward to make use of and could be inserted with out the necessity for particular coaching. Nonetheless, there are some frequent questions that folks have about nasal cannulas.
Query 1: How deep ought to I insert the nasal cannula?
The nasal cannula needs to be inserted to a depth of about 1 to 2 inches. The prongs needs to be positioned simply contained in the nostrils.
Query 2: How do I do know if the nasal cannula is delivering the correct quantity of oxygen?
The oxygen movement price needs to be set in line with the affected person’s wants. The movement price needs to be excessive sufficient to supply the affected person with the wanted quantity of oxygen, however not so excessive that it causes discomfort.
Query 3: How usually ought to I alter the nasal cannula?
The nasal cannula needs to be modified each day or two. Nonetheless, it might have to be modified extra usually if it turns into dirty or broken.
Query 4: Can I sleep with a nasal cannula?
Sure, you’ll be able to sleep with a nasal cannula. Nonetheless, it is very important make it possible for the cannula shouldn’t be kinked or twisted.
Query 5: Can I bathe with a nasal cannula?
Sure, you’ll be able to bathe with a nasal cannula. Nonetheless, it is very important maintain the cannula dry.
Query 6: What are the advantages of utilizing a nasal cannula?
Nasal cannulas are a secure and efficient method to ship oxygen to sufferers who want supplemental oxygen. They’re comparatively straightforward to make use of and could be inserted with out the necessity for particular coaching. Nasal cannulas are additionally comfy to put on and can be utilized for lengthy intervals of time.
If in case you have every other questions on nasal cannulas, please discuss to your physician or respiratory therapist.
Abstract of key takeaways:
- Nasal cannulas are a secure and efficient method to ship oxygen to sufferers who want supplemental oxygen.
- Nasal cannulas are comparatively straightforward to make use of and could be inserted with out the necessity for particular coaching.
- The nasal cannula needs to be inserted to a depth of about 1 to 2 inches.
- The oxygen movement price needs to be set in line with the affected person’s wants.
- The nasal cannula needs to be modified each day or two.
Transition to the following article part:
Now that you know the way to make use of a nasal cannula, you’ll be able to study extra about different strategies of oxygen supply.
Suggestions for Utilizing Nasal Cannulas
Nasal cannulas are a typical methodology of delivering oxygen to sufferers who want supplemental oxygen. They’re skinny, versatile tubes which can be inserted into the nostril. Nasal cannulas are comparatively straightforward to make use of, however there are some things you are able to do to ensure you are utilizing them appropriately and getting essentially the most profit from them.
Tip 1: Place the nasal cannula appropriately. The nasal cannula needs to be inserted to a depth of about 1 to 2 inches. The prongs needs to be positioned simply contained in the nostrils.
Tip 2: Set the oxygen movement price appropriately. The oxygen movement price needs to be set in line with your physician’s orders. The movement price needs to be excessive sufficient to offer you the wanted quantity of oxygen, however not so excessive that it causes discomfort.
Tip 3: Change the nasal cannula repeatedly. The nasal cannula needs to be modified each day or two. Nonetheless, it might have to be modified extra usually if it turns into dirty or broken.
Tip 4: Maintain the nasal cannula clear. The nasal cannula needs to be cleaned every day with cleaning soap and water. You may also use a gentle bleach resolution to scrub the cannula.
Tip 5: Keep away from kinking or twisting the nasal cannula. Kinking or twisting the nasal cannula can block the movement of oxygen. Be certain that the cannula is straight and untangled earlier than utilizing it.
Tip 6: Safe the nasal cannula in place. The nasal cannula could be secured in place with a bit of tape or a strap. This may assist to forestall the cannula from falling out.
Tip 7: Use a humidifier. A humidifier may help to moisten the air and make it extra comfy to breathe. This may be particularly useful when you have dry nasal passages.
Tip 8: Discuss to your physician or respiratory therapist. If in case you have any questions or considerations about utilizing a nasal cannula, discuss to your physician or respiratory therapist. They’ll offer you extra data and help.
Abstract of key takeaways:
- Place the nasal cannula appropriately.
- Set the oxygen movement price appropriately.
- Change the nasal cannula repeatedly.
- Maintain the nasal cannula clear.
- Keep away from kinking or twisting the nasal cannula.
- Safe the nasal cannula in place.
- Use a humidifier.
- Discuss to your physician or respiratory therapist when you have any questions or considerations.
Transition to the article’s conclusion:
By following the following tips, you’ll be able to guarantee that you’re utilizing your nasal cannula appropriately and getting essentially the most profit from it.
Conclusion
Nasal cannulas are a secure and efficient method to ship oxygen to sufferers who want supplemental oxygen. They’re comparatively straightforward to make use of and could be inserted with out the necessity for particular coaching. By following the steps outlined on this article, you’ll be able to make sure that the nasal cannula is inserted appropriately and is delivering the correct quantity of oxygen.
If in case you have any questions or considerations about utilizing a nasal cannula, please discuss to your physician or respiratory therapist. They’ll offer you extra data and help.
