What is the primary purpose of a nasal cannula in oxygen therapy?

The primary purpose of a nasal cannula in oxygen therapy is to deliver low flow oxygen. This device is designed to provide supplemental oxygen to patients in a non-invasive manner while allowing them to speak, eat, and move around more freely. A nasal cannula typically delivers oxygen at flow rates ranging from 1 to 6 liters per minute, which corresponds to a concentration of approximately 24% to 40% oxygen, depending on the flow rate and the patient's breathing pattern.

Using a nasal cannula is particularly effective in situations where patients require supplemental oxygen but do not need high concentrations or high flow, thereby making it suitable for managing mild to moderate respiratory distress and for patients with various chronic respiratory conditions. Additionally, the nasal cannula is less cumbersome compared to other higher-flow oxygen delivery systems, such as non-rebreather masks, which are used in more critical situations requiring high concentrations of oxygen.

Understanding that the nasal cannula primarily functions for low flow oxygen helps in assessing situations where a patient needs oxygen therapy, particularly in emergency response scenarios, ensuring appropriate treatment is provided based on the patient's needs.