Nasal Cannula Tubing

Plastic nasal cannula tubing is used for the delivery of supplemental oxygen or high flow oxygen therapy to patients suffering from various respiratory conditions. Cannulas are designed to connect from an oxygen source and rest over the patient ears connected under the patient nose where a set of prongs can be inserted into the nostrils. In contrast to the use of oxygen masks, nasal cannula tubing enables a patient to receive the required supplemental oxygen to support respiratory concerns comfortably while eating, resting, or talking.

Nasal cannula tubing is commonly manufactured with a latex free plastic providing maximum strength to prevent crushing, yet conforming to enhance patient comfort. Design considerations include the use of softer plastics to reduce skin irritation particularly in more sensitive individuals such as children. Nasal cannula tubing, because of its length and uses, is also designed to withstand pressure so that oxygen flow is not impeded. More commonly found in tubing design is a 5 channel inner structure bracing the tube from kinks and crushing.

Standard and high flow nasal cannula tubing are available to accommodate various oxygen therapy needs. Typically, high flow tubes will come with flared nostril tips to allow a greater flow of oxygen. Standard tubing allows flows up to 5 LPM (Liters per Minute) of oxygen, while high flow tubing can allow as high as 15 LPM though these levels are rarely reached as the likelihood of over-delivery may occur and affect patient nasal passages.

Nasal cannula tubing provides patients a more convenient way to receive their oxygen than using face masks. The lightweight patient-focused design allows access to the activities that patients enjoy while receiving the treatment they need.