Applying a Nasal Prong for Oxygen Therapy
Nurse:
Good afternoon, Ms. Taylor. My name is Emily, and I’ll be your nurse today. Your physician has prescribed oxygen therapy via a nasal prong to support your breathing. This will help increase the amount of oxygen circulating in your bloodstream, which is important for your overall recovery. I’ll explain each step, so you know what to expect. If anything feels uncomfortable at any point, please let me know immediately.
Patient:
Thank you, Emily. I’ve never used a nasal prong before. Is it uncomfortable?
Nurse:
That’s a great question. Most patients find it quite comfortable after the initial adjustment. I’ll make sure the device is fitted properly so there’s minimal pressure or irritation. Let’s start by adjusting your position. Could you sit upright or recline slightly? The semi-Fowler’s position, with your head elevated 30–45 degrees, is ideal for optimal lung expansion and oxygen flow.
Patient:
Like this? Is this okay?
Nurse:
Yes, that’s perfect. Your posture looks great. Now, I’m going to prepare the oxygen equipment. First, I’ll check the oxygen flowmeter to ensure it’s functioning correctly and then connect it to the oxygen source, which in this case is a wall-mounted supply. According to your prescription, your flow rate will be 2 liters per minute, which typically provides around 28% oxygen concentration.
(Nurse verifies the flowmeter and ensures that the oxygen source is connected and operational.)
Procedure: Applying the Nasal Prong
Nurse:
I’m now preparing the nasal prong, also known as a nasal cannula. I’ll gently insert the two soft prongs into your nostrils—one in each nostril. They should rest comfortably without pressing too hard. Next, I’ll loop the tubing over your ears and secure it under your chin using the adjustable slider.
(Nurse inserts the nasal prongs carefully, loops the tubing, and checks for correct placement.)
Nurse:
If you feel any pressure or irritation behind your ears or under your nose, let me know. We can add soft padding or adjust the tubing to improve comfort. How does it feel?
Patient:
It feels a little strange, but I think it’s okay for now.
Nurse:
That’s completely normal for first-time users. You may notice a cool sensation in your nose as the oxygen flows. Let me adjust the flowmeter now to your prescribed rate.
(Nurse adjusts the flowmeter to 2 liters per minute and checks for any kinks in the tubing.)
Nurse:
The oxygen is flowing at the correct rate. I’ve also checked the tubing to make sure there are no twists or blockages that could restrict airflow. Now, let’s monitor how well your body is absorbing the oxygen. I’ll use a pulse oximeter to check your oxygen saturation. I’ll place this clip on your finger—it’s painless and gives us a real-time reading of your oxygen levels.
(Nurse applies the pulse oximeter and observes the monitor.)
Patient Instructions and Safety Guidance
Patient:
What do I need to do while I’m wearing this?
Nurse:
Great question. Just breathe naturally through your nose. Try not to pull or adjust the tubing too much, as it might shift the nasal prongs or interrupt the flow. If you feel any discomfort, dryness, or irritation, please let me know right away.
Patient:
Is there anything else I should be careful about?
Nurse:
Yes, a few important safety points. First, never smoke or go near open flames while receiving oxygen therapy—it’s extremely flammable. Also, avoid placing the tubing near sharp objects or heat sources, which could damage it. If you experience dryness in your nose or throat, we can attach a humidifier bottle to the oxygen line to moisten the air and improve comfort.
Patient:
Got it. How long will I need to use this?
Nurse:
That depends on your oxygen levels and how your body responds to the therapy. We’ll monitor your oxygen saturation regularly, and your physician will adjust the flow rate or discontinue the therapy when appropriate. For now, the priority is making sure you feel comfortable and supported.
(Nurse re-checks the tubing, oxygen flow, and patient comfort.)
Nurse:
Is the nasal prong still comfortable?
Patient:
Yes, it’s fine. Thank you for explaining everything so clearly.
Nurse:
You’re very welcome. I’ll check back on you in about 30 minutes to assess how you’re doing and make sure the equipment is still working correctly. If anything changes or you feel any discomfort before then, don’t hesitate to press the call button. I’ll come right away.
Educational Notes (for Nursing Students):
- Indication: Oxygen therapy is prescribed for patients with hypoxemia or respiratory distress.
- Device selection: Nasal prongs are suitable for low-flow oxygen needs (1–6 L/min).
- Flow rate awareness: Ensure prescribed rate matches oxygen concentration needed (e.g., 2 L/min ≈ 28%).
- Patient education: Comfort, safety precautions (no smoking), and natural breathing are key.
- Monitoring: Use a pulse oximeter to check SpO₂ levels regularly.
- Documentation: Record flow rate, patient’s SpO₂, respiratory effort, comfort level, and any signs of nasal irritation.
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