High flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is a system for delivering heated humidified oxygen to patients experiencing acute hypoxic respiratory failure. It can deliver up to 100% oxygen at a flow rate of up to 60 L/min and is generally only available in the inpatient setting. This Fast Facts will discuss a guideline for the withdrawal of HFNC in patients who are dependent on this modality and wish to transition to comfort-focused care. In contrast to mechanical ventilation, patients on HFNC more often are awake and decisional, so the process of weaning may be more emotionally distressing for patients, families, and clinicians.
Link: Fast Facts #503 (03/2025)
