Medivac
HFNC FAQ
What's the difference between regular oxygen nasal cannula and high flow nasal cannula ?
High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy provides humidified and heated oxygen at flow rates of up to 60 L/min. This can enhance oxygenation and reduce the effort required for breathing, especially in patients experiencing respiratory distress.
Unlike low-flow nasal cannulas, HFNC effectively clears the anatomical dead space in the upper airways. This improves ventilation and oxygenation by minimizing CO2 rebreathing and enhancing gas exchange.
Can I use a regular nasal cannula to deliver the rate of HFNC ?
You cannot use a regular nasal cannula to deliver oxygen at high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) rates because HFNC provides heated and humidified oxygen, which enhances patient comfort.
A standard nasal cannula should only be used at flow rates between 0.5 liters per minute (LPM) and 6 LPM. Any oxygen flow rate above 6 LPM can cause discomfort to the patient.
Do I need a prescription for HFNC ?
Yes! A prescription is essential for High-Flow Nasal Cannula (HFNC) therapy.
At Medivac Emergency Ambulance, we specialize in transporting patients who have been compassionately discharged from the hospital with HFNC prescribed by their doctor, ensuring their safe return home.
In cases where your doctor hasn’t prescribed HFNC but the patient is facing respiratory distress, our expert team of respiratory therapists, nurses, and doctors is ready to assist. We can set up HFNC at home if required, providing the necessary care and comfort when it’s needed most.
Your health and wellbeing are our top priorities!
Do I need an oxygen source when using a HFNC machine ?
Yes, you will need an oxygen source to deliver oxygen to the patient through the HFNC machine.
Where can I rent a HFNC Machine ?
At Medivac Emergency Ambulance, we provide HFNC machine rentals in Singapore. We also support the rental of our medical devices to overseas customers.
