What is the primary risk associated with using a nasal cannula at high flow rates?

Using a nasal cannula at high flow rates presents specific risks, with the potential for nasal mucosal injury and discomfort being the primary concern. When high flow rates are employed, the dry and high-velocity oxygen delivered through the cannula can lead to irritation and damage to the delicate nasal mucosa. This can result in complications such as nasal bleeding, inflammation, or overall discomfort for the patient.

Additionally, when oxygen is administered at elevated flow rates, particularly if the patient is using a standard nasal cannula rather than a more specialized device, it may not be humidified, exacerbating dryness and increasing the likelihood of mucosal injury. This discomfort can lead to non-compliance, making it difficult for the patient to tolerate and potentially compromising their respiratory support.

Moreover, while high flow rates can deliver significant amounts of oxygen, they also carry considerations related to carbon dioxide retention and the risk of pneumothorax, but these are not primarily associated with the use of a nasal cannula; rather, these issues are more relevant to other types of oxygen delivery methods and specific patient conditions.