HIGH FLOW NASAL CANNULA THERAPY IN PAEDIATRIC RESPIRATORY DISTRESS WITH HYPOXIA -A RETROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY

Background: A high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is a non-invasive respiratory support device that provides a blend of air-oxygen mixture which is heated and humidified which delivers flow as high as 60 L/min and can deliver oxygen fractions (FiO2) from 21% to 100% through a nasal cannula. The main motto of HFNC is to set a higher oxygen flow than inspiratory demand flow according to the clinical situation. The advantages over other non-invasive modalities are this will lead to washout of the upper airways, decreases dead space and nasal resistance, this study intends to elucidate its indications, efficacy and failure rates in children. Objectives: To elucidate the indications for HFNC therapy in children of all ages and diagnoses and to evaluate the efficacy and risk Factors for failure of HFNC therapy in Paediatric acute respiratory distress with hypoxia in PICU. Methods: Retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary paediatricintensive care unit between November 1 2023and November 1 2024 All children from 1 month to 18 years of age with acute respiratory distress with hypoxia on HFNC therapy were eligible. Patient’s demographic details, conditions for which HFNC was used, clinical course, vital parameters duration of HFNC, and outcome measures like escalation to higher O2 support or transition to low O2 support were noted.