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Regular Article
Use of heated humidified high-flow nasal cannula oxygen in neonates: a UK wide survey
Article first published online: 11 DEC 2012
DOI: 10.1111/apa.12090
©2012 The Author(s)/Acta Pædiatrica ©2012 Foundation Acta Pædiatrica
Additional Information
How to Cite
Ojha, S., Gridley, E. and Dorling, J. (2013), Use of heated humidified high-flow nasal cannula oxygen in neonates: a UK wide survey. Acta Paediatrica, 102: 249–253. doi: 10.1111/apa.12090
Publication History
- Issue published online: 5 FEB 2013
- Article first published online: 11 DEC 2012
- Accepted manuscript online: 20 NOV 2012 08:25AM EST
- Manuscript Accepted: 12 NOV 2012
- Manuscript Revised: 3 OCT 2012
- Manuscript Received: 9 JUL 2012
Funded by
- Trent Perinatal Network
Keywords:
- Heated humidified high-flow nasal cannula ;
- Neonates;
- Respiratory support;
- Oxygen
Abstract
Aim
Heated humidified high-flow nasal cannula (HHHFNC) oxygen is a relatively new form of respiratory support and is increasing in popularity despite lack of supportive evidence and amid safety concerns. We investigated the prevalence of its use in tertiary neonatal units in the UK.
Method
Electronic survey.
Results
A total of 57 units were contacted and replies received from 44 (77%). HHHFNC was used in 34/44 (77%) units. Vapotherm 2000i and Fisher and Paykel RT329 were the most popular devices. 39% units used HHHFNC without policies. Most reported use in infants of any gestation (24/34, 71%) and weight (26/34, 77%) and for a variety of indications including as an alternative to CPAP (26/34, 77%), weaning off CPAP (24/34, 71%) and postextubation (18/34, 53%). The flow rates, cannula size and mouth position varied widely. The popularity of HHHFNC appeared to be its perceived ease of use and improved access to the baby.
Conclusion
This survey demonstrates that HHHFNC is a widely used modality in UK neonatal units. Its current use appears to be without clear criteria and mostly based on individual preference. In view of doubts about its efficacy and concerns regarding safety, this study highlights the urgent need for research to evaluate its use in newborns.