When placed against your finger or toe, the sensing device, called a pulse oximeter, uses light to measure the amount of oxygen in your blood. No blood draw or needle is necessary.
Oxygen can be administered with nasal cannulas or face masks in hospitals, clinics, or specialized care facilities. It can also be administered in a home setting or even on the go. Venturi masks provide a constant, preset level of oxygen. Nasal cannulas are the most common method for oxygen delivery. This is primarily because they are less intrusive than other options and allow a person to eat and speak freely.
People with nasal cannulas sometimes experience nasal dryness, particularly when receiving oxygen at high levels. New devices can help with this symptom by adding moisture and warmth to the delivery process. Despite its benefits, oxygen therapy does not come risk-free. Several complications can develop with extended treatment of high levels of oxygen.
In some cases, people may develop lung damage or a condition known as pulmonary oxygen toxicity. It can also cause damage to the eyes.
Contact your doctor if you notice a bluish tint to your lips or fingernails, or if you begin to have difficulty breathing while on supplemental oxygen. Sometimes supplemental oxygen is needed only during sleep or exercise. If you experience skin irritation due to the fit of the device, your doctor may be able to adjust it. Over-the-counter ointments may help with chafing of the nose.
Keep other flammable items away as well, including aerosols, candles, and stoves. Flow rates of up to 6 litres can be given but this will often cause nasal dryness and can be uncomfortable for patients British Thoracic Society, The advantages of nasal cannulas for patients who have chronic stable respiratory problems is that it is possible to eat, drink and talk while using them; they also reduce the risk of carbon dioxide rebreathing.
Dry nasal passages can be a problem initially but with continued use this usually resolves itself. Sign in or Register a new account to join the discussion. You are here: Respiratory. When should a nasal cannula be used to deliver oxygen? This article has been updated The evidence in this article is no longer current. Oxygen is also highly flammable, so care must be taken to avoid encountering cigarettes, candles, stoves, etc. With sufficient proof, most insurance companies and Medicare will cover nasal cannulation.
Generally, the following criteria is assessed:. The cost covers routine maintenance. Check with your insurance company to discuss your personal benefits and inclusions. Most manufacturers advise that patients change their nasal cannulas once a week for regular daily use or up to a month for sporadic use. You can prolong the life of your cannula by taking proper care of it and washing it regularly.
The biggest danger in not doing so is a buildup of bacteria, which may lead to infection. After each use, clean the cannula with an alcohol wipe. If you use oxygen continuously, take a break to disinfect the cannula at least once or twice a day or more if you are congested. Getting sick can be very dangerous for people with respiratory conditions like COPD, so you need to be vigilant about this.
Once you have thoroughly washed the cannula, rinse it well in cold water to be sure all the soap and bacteria have been removed. Hang the cannula to dry before using it again. Likewise here, change your cannula any time you have been sick or feel like you may be coming down with something to avoid exposure to bacteria. Be sure to keep extra supplies on hand so you can change the cannula whenever necessary. Make sure you take stock of your supplies and order replacements long before you run out.
Nasal cannulation is a relatively noninvasive way of providing oxygen that may greatly improve your quality of life. Having sufficient air to breathe can make a world of difference in performing your daily activities, giving you more energy, and helping reduce fatigue. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether nasal cannula-delivered oxygen is right for you and your condition.
Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. American Lung Association. Lung procedures and tests. Updated October 25, The difference between high flow nasal cannula and continuous positive airway pressure. High-flow nasal cannula: mechanisms of action and adult and pediatric indications. Comparisons and limitations of current definitions of bronchopulmonary dysplasia for the Prematurity and Respiratory Outcomes Program.
Ann Am Thorac Soc. Nishimura M. High-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy in adults: physiological benefits, indication, clinical benefits, and adverse effects.
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