ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to assess retrospectively whether the average inspiratory flow velocity-based initial flow rate in high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) therapy could be well tolerated and safely used for infants and children hospitalized with moderate to severe respiratory failure. METHODS: Thirty-three patients without underlying diseases (22 males; 67%), hospitalized to receive HFNC therapy for infection-related respiratory failure, were analyzed. The median age was 2 months (interquartile range, 1 month to 1 year). Patients with dyspnea and carbon dioxide partial pressure (pCO2 ) >50 mmHg or venous blood pH <7.320, combined with pulse oximetry arterial oxygen saturation <92%, were included. We set target flow rates calculated from the average inspiratory flow velocity, starting at the actual initial flow rates, and these were subsequently adjusted if necessary. RESULTS: One patient could not tolerate the cannula. Of the remaining 32 patients, 81% (n = 26) had an actual initial flow rate within 1 L of the target flow rate; these patients were evaluated for changes in the fraction of inspired oxygen (FITarget flow rate tableO2 ), pH, and pCO2 values after 24 h. Three patients required a higher fraction of inspired oxygen, one showed a persistent pH < 7.320, and seven exhibited pCO2 >50 mmHg. No patient required non-invasive positive-pressure ventilation, and one required intubation. Pneumothorax was not reported in any patient. CONCLUSIONS: The average inspiratory flow velocity-based initial flow rate was well-tolerated without sedation, and there were no severe complications. Starting at this flow rate would improve the use of HFNC therapy in the pediatric ward, possibly reducing the need for more invasive modes of ventilation.