Our Mission

As our aging population grows, so does the prevalence of respiratory-related ailments. To meet this medical need, a variety of new respiratory diagnostic and treatment options are being developed. With the availability of these new options, respiratory care professionals will require the most up-to-date, scientifically- and clinically-based information to help them make informed decisions on what is best for their patients.

Clinical Foundations provides practical, clinically- and evidenced-based articles, case studies and symposia for respiratory therapists and respiratory care directors, managers, and supervisors. Clinical Foundations is based on a patient-focused model of care that emphasizes the need to provide the care and services that focus on patients’ individual needs and preferences.

As part of our commitment to helping respiratory care professionals improve their skills, each edition of Clinical Foundations is fully accredited by the AARC for CRCEs.

New Module

High Flow Nasal Cannula

Meagan N. Dubosky, MS, RRT-ACCS, NPS, AE-C

Heated and humidified high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) usage has gained popularity in the management of patients with moderate to severe hypoxemia. Capable of providing gas flow rates up to 60 LPM, HFNC therapy can potentially exceed the patient’s inspiratory flow demands resulting in a fixed delivery of the desired fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2), ranging from 0.21 to 1.0. Its reported effectiveness and improved patient comfort warrants clinicians to understand how to apply and manage this oxygen therapy device. This article will explain the HFNC’s evolution, potential mechanisms of action, use in various patient conditions, and suggest a recommended application and management.

Panel Discussion:  High Flow Nasal Cannula: Opinions from the Experts

Moderator:  David Vines, PhD, RRT, FAARC

Panelists:  Jonathan Waugh, PhD, RRT, FAARC , Robert Joyner, PhD, RRT, FAARC , Ronny Otero, MD, FAAEM, FACEP

In this panel discussion, four experts convene to discuss topics such as the role and potential benefits or hazards with the use of HFNC in the management of acute hypoxemic respiratory failure, the role and potential benefits or hazards with the use of HFNC in acute exacerbation of COPD patients, the role of HFNC in the management of patients with chronic conditions in subacute or home care, improving patient comfort and tolerance with HFNC, weaning from HFNC, and whether or not the size of the bore of the HFNC makes a difference. A full list of references is included.