What should a nurse remember about administering oxygen therapy via nasal cannula?

Administering oxygen therapy via a nasal cannula requires careful consideration of the flow rate to ensure both effectiveness and patient comfort. The correct approach is to regulate oxygen via a nasal cannula at a flow rate of no more than 6 L/min. This is because nasal cannulas typically deliver oxygen concentrations of 24% to 44%, depending on the flow rate, and exceeding 6 L/min can lead to discomfort for the patient, such as nasal dryness or irritation.

At higher flow rates, the risk of drying out the mucous membranes in the nasal passages increases, which can result in complications and decreased patient compliance with therapy. Maintaining the flow rate at or below 6 L/min can help ensure that the patient receives adequate oxygen while minimizing discomfort and side effects. Proper training on the administration of oxygen therapy highlights the importance of monitoring the flow rate to avoid potential issues with patient tolerance and efficacy of the treatment.