High Flow Nasal Cannula
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
If you will be using HFNC at home, healthcare providers will show you how to set up and use the device. You will get information on how to clean the parts and how much extra oxygen to keep as a backup. You will also get instructions for using oxygen safely. This includes checking your blood oxygen level regularly with a pulse oximeter.
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DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:
- You have chest pain.
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Call your doctor if:
- You have more shortness of breath than usual.
- You have wheezing or other breathing problems, even when you are using oxygen.
- Your lips or fingernails look pale or blue.
- You feel confused or anxious.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Why HFNC may be needed:
- Helps premature newborns breathe. Premature babies are born earlier than 37 weeks, before certain parts of the body have fully formed. This can cause a condition called apnea of prematurity (AOP). AOP causes the baby to stop breathing for 15 to 20 seconds or to pause for several seconds. HFNC can help the baby breathe more regularly.
- Manages lung conditions in older children and adults. Conditions such as COPD, pneumonia, and respiratory failure can cause low blood oxygen levels. HFNC helps increase the oxygen level. It can also help thin mucus that may form in the lungs. This makes it easier to cough up or remove.
- Keeps the airway open during sleep. HFNC can be used to manage obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is usually treated with a continuous positive air pressure (CPAP) machine. A CPAP mask may be difficult to wear during sleep. HFNC does not use a mask, so it may be more comfortable than CPAP.
- Prevents breathing problems before and after a procedure or surgery. For example, breathing problems can develop during intubation. HFNC can keep oxygen at the right level while intubation tubes are being placed and removed.
Follow up with your doctor or lung specialist as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
Further information
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