Policy for the Prescription, Administration and Monitoring Of Oxygen ...

Appendix d. Oxygen delivery devices and equipmentNasal CannualeDESCRIPTIONNasal cannulae consist of a pair of tubes about 2cm long each projecting into the nostriland stemming from a tube which passes over the ears and which is thus self-retainingPURPOSECannulae are preferred to masks by most patients. They have the advantage of notinterfering with feeding and are more convenient as masks during coughing and feeding.They are a variable performance device and deliver a flow rate rather than a percentage ofoxygen.1.2.3.4.ACTION(When using nasal cannula).Position the tips of thecannula in the patient's noseso that the tips do not extendmore than 1.5cm into thenose.Place tubing over the ears andunder the chin as describedabove. Educate patient reprevention of pressure areason the back of the ear.Adjust flow rate, usually 2-4L/min but may vary from 1-6L/min in some circumstances.If the patient is requiring anemollient for the treatment ofdry skin secondary to oxygentherapy, a water basedproduct should be used.suitable products include aquagel and aqueous cream.RATIONALEOverlong tubing is uncomfortable, whichmay make the patient reject theprocedure. Sore nasal mucosa can resultfrom pressure of friction tubing that is toolong.To allow optimum comfort for the patient.To prevent pressure soresSet the flow rate to achieve the desiredtarget oxygen saturation.Paraffin based products should not beused in any circumstances as they areflammable with oxygen.Policy for the prescription, administrationand monitoring of emergency oxygen in adultsPage 24 of 34