Oxygen Cannulas Tubings and Connectors

Types of Nasal Cannula for Oxygen Therapy

Reviewed by Laura Castricone, Respiratory Therapist, August 24, 2022

Introduction     |     Types     |     Benefits

With the increased levels of pollution in the air, respiratory problems are one of the raging issues in the medical world. Millions around the world are affected by some of the smallest to the biggest respiratory issues. Basic breathing problems can turn into nightmares for some people. Allergies are a common thing that can also affect normalized breathing. For such people, supplemental oxygen has to be provided so that no other complications can take place.

Oxygen cannulas are tube-like devices that supply supplementary oxygen from a source to the patient. The ends of the cannula are placed in the nostrils through which oxygen is delivered. Hence, these cannulas are also known as nasal cannulas.

When does one need a Nasal Cannula?

There are a number of conditions in which a person might lose the ability to breathe normally and need a comfortable nasal cannula to obtain supplementary oxygen.

• Asthma
• COPD
• Chronic bronchitis
• Emphysema
• Cystic fibrosis
• Pneumonia
• Lung cancer
• Pulmonary embolism

Types of Nasal Cannulas

Different types of nasal cannulas are categorized on the basis of prong shapes. Prongs are small tube openings inserted into the nostrils.

1. Curved Prong Cannula

2. Flared Prong Cannula

3. Curved and Flared Prong Cannula

4. Straight Prong Cannula

Improved breathing is one of the major benefits of using oxygen cannulas. Improved oxygen levels mean better breathing and normal health resulting in:

• Increased agility and activeness
• Better sleep
• Longer lifespan
• Better health

Risks associated with Oxygen Cannulas

Usually, they are risk-free, but carelessness during use might result in a number of problems.

• Nasal dryness
• Lung damage
• Damage to the eyes
• Oxygen toxicity

Oxygen cannulas are one of the most important parts of all oxygen delivery systems. They are easy to use and can be easily cleaned. The right type of cannula can help improvise and increase oxygen levels, thus resulting in better health. Choosing the right nasal cannula type should be one of the first steps when deciding what device or tools one should buy for supplying or using supplementary oxygen. They are the delivery tools of oxygen, and the wrong kind of cannula might cause loss of oxygen or further complications during therapy.

Frequently Asked Questions about Nasal Cannula

1. Which way do nasal cannula prongs go?

   Swivel and turn the cannula so that the cannula prongs are pointed upwards and fit inside the nostrils properly. Make sure the tubing is curved down towards you to avoid any kink and ensure an easy oxygen flow.

2. How often should you wash the tubing?

   You can clean oxygen cannulas once per week using mild soap and detergent or vinegar and water solution. A cleaning mixture with equal parts water and vinegar is recommended for cleaning the cannula. Make sure the cannula is completely dried after washing for next use.

3. How to make a nasal cannula more comfortable?

   To make the nasal cannula comfortable -

   • Identify the right sized cannula for proper fitting.
   • You can use a cannula ear protector to avoid chaffing, pressure injury, or rash on the sensitive tissues over the ears.

4. How frequently should I replace my nasal cannula?

   It is advised to clean the cannula after every use and replace it every 2-4 weeks. Oxygen tubing can be replaced every two months.

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