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Background: High-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy (HFNC) has emerged as a highly effective and well-tolerated respiratory support system in the management of acute hypoxemic respiratory failure. Its use has expanded beyond intensive care units to emergency departments and general hospital wards.
Objective: This review aims to synthesize current scientific evidence regarding the physiological basis, clinical indications, and nursing care considerations related to HFNC use.
Methods: A narrative literature review was conducted using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, and ScienceDirect, focusing on studies published between 2015 and 2024. Keywords included «high-flow nasal cannula», «HFNC», «nursing care», and «acute respiratory failure».
Results: HFNC improves oxygenation, reduces the need for intubation, and is associated with better patient comfort compared to conventional oxygen delivery methods. Nursing professionals play a critical role in the proper implementation, monitoring, and management of potential complications associated with this therapy.
Conclusions: HFNC is a safe and effective alternative to conventional oxygen therapy, especially when managed with adequate training and clinical protocols. Nursing care is fundamental to achieving successful outcomes with this modality.
