Anesthesia Technologist Complete Practice Exam 2025

The function of a high-flow nasal cannula in anesthesia primarily involves the delivery of supplemental oxygen to the patient. High-flow nasal cannulas can provide a significant amount of oxygen at higher flow rates, which helps to meet the increased oxygen demands of patients, especially those who may be experiencing respiratory distress or are under sedation during procedures.

This method of oxygen delivery is particularly advantageous because it can offer a heated and humidified gas mixture, improving patient comfort and reducing the risk of airway irritation that can occur with traditional oxygen delivery methods. Additionally, high-flow nasal cannulas can create a certain level of positive pressure in the airway, which can aid in maintaining patency and improve overall ventilation.

While high-flow nasal cannulas are not designed for delivering anesthesia in the same way that masks or intravenous routes are used, they play a critical role in optimizing oxygenation during anesthesia and are a valuable tool in the management of patient care.