A nasal cannula is a medical device used when people cannot get enough oxygen to maintain optimal body function, whether it is due to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), another respiratory disease or environmental changes. The nasal cannula (and its connected oxygen source) is lightweight, easy to use, and reasonably priced. They can be used in various hospital settings, whether at home or on the go.

This passage is going to talk about the following questions of nasal cannulas:

(1) How do nasal cannula work?

(2) When will nasal cannula be used?

(3) Risks and precautions of using a nasal cannula

(4) How to maintain the nasal cannula?

(1) How do nasal cannula work?

The nasal cannula is a small flexible tube that contains two split prongs located just inside the nostrils. The tube is connected to an oxygen source and delivers stable medical oxygen to your nose.

Although high-flow cannula does exist, nasal cannula uses relatively low oxygen concentration. These allowable outputs are similar to those of continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) systems. The doctor will calibrate the oxygen supply to the appropriate level according to your needs.

Nasal cannulas are not as invasive as other oxygen delivery systems, and masks are involved in most cases. In contrast, nasal cannula usually do not prohibit regular eating and speaking, and they are easy to carry.

(2) When will nasal cannula be used?

Using a nasal cannula means that you will have a higher oxygen level and hopefully increase energy and reduce fatigue, because you will be able to breathe more easily during the day and sleep better at night.

If you suffer from any of the following conditions, your doctor may recommend a nasal cannula:

asthma

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

sleep apnea

Cystic fibrosis

pneumonia

Nasal intubation can also be used for newborns with poor lung development (bronchopulmonary dysplasia), as well as for acute cases such as heart failure, trauma, or at high altitudes, because oxygen levels are naturally low.

(3) Risks and precautions of using a nasal cannula

One side effect of using a nasal cannula is dryness of the nose, which is very common because the cold dry oxygen flows into your nostrils. However, some oxygen equipment is equipped with a humidifier or can be purchased separately. Warm, humid air can counter the effects of dryness.

Although generally considered safe, there are some risks to consider before using any form of supplemental oxygen. That is, long-term use has been related to lung damage, eye damage (caused by pressure buildup) and a disease called pulmonary oxygen poisoning, in which too much oxygen exists in the body, which may cause damage to the airways.

Oxygen is also highly flammable, so care must be taken to avoid touching cigarettes, candles, stoves, etc.

(4) How to maintain the nasal cannula?

Most manufacturers recommend that patients regularly replace the nasal cannula once a day for daily use, at most once a month. You can extend the life of the sleeve through proper care and regular cleaning. The biggest danger of not doing this is the accumulation of bacteria, which can lead to infection.

After each use, clean the sleeve with an alcohol wiper. If you continue to use oxygen, take a break at least once or twice a day for disinfection once (or more times if you are crowded). For people with respiratory diseases such as COPD, getting sick can be very dangerous, so you need to be vigilant.

For deeper cleaning, soak the pipe in warm water with a small amount of detergent and white vinegar. This is a good bactericide and will not swallow the pipe material.

After thoroughly cleaning the sleeve, rinse it with cold water to ensure that all soap and bacteria are removed. Hang the casing to dry before using it again.

Likewise, when you are sick or if you feel you are down, you should always change the sleeve to avoid contact with bacteria. Make sure you have excess consumables on hand so that the cannula can be replaced if necessary. Make sure to count consumables and order replacements long before they run out. As always, follow your doctor's instructions for how often to replace the nasal cannula and properly maintain and maintain the equipment. Our products including Hot Water Bottle, Ice Bag Pack, contact us now.