Nurses' experiences by using heated humidified high flow cannula to premature infants versus nasal continuous positive airway pressure

BackgroundSome premature infants are now being treated with heated humidified high flow nasal cannula (HHHFNC) instead of nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP).PurposeTo explore nurses' experiences of using HHHFNC compared with nCPAP for premature infants.MethodSix qualitative in-depth interviews were completed with nurses at two different newborn intensive care units.ResultsPreterm infants showed greater satisfaction with HHHFNC than nasal continuous positive airway pressure. HHHFNC was also associated with fewer pressure injuries and less facial discomfort, and an increased bonding between baby and parent. However, HHHFNC gave less ventilation support than nCPAP.ConclusionWhenever clinically possible, premature infants should be placed on HHHFNC because, compared to nCPAP, it results in less pressure related injuries, provides the most comfort and allows increased interaction between the parents and infant.