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TL;DR

Nasal Cannula: Low-flow O2: 1-6 LPM delivering 24-44% FiO2 for mild hypoxemia.

By Valenke Exam Prep Team·Last updated 2026-06-02

Nasal Cannula

NREMT EMTNREMT PARAMEDIC

Definition

Low-flow O2: 1-6 LPM delivering 24-44% FiO2 for mild hypoxemia.

Differential Diagnosis

When assessing nasal cannula, use structured assessment tools to differentiate between possible causes:

SAMPLE: Components: Signs/symptoms, Allergies, Medications, Past history, Last intake, Events. Scoring: Mnemonic for patient history gathering.

Glasgow Coma Scale: Components: Eye opening (1-4), Verbal response (1-5), Motor response (1-6). Scoring: 3-15, 8 or less = severe, 9-12 = moderate, 13-15 = mild.

Practical Example

Field Scenario: An 8-month-old infant is found unresponsive. Parents report fever of 104 F for 2 days. Fontanelle is bulging. Suspect meningitis: manage airway, IV access, rapid transport.

This scenario tests your ability to apply knowledge of nasal cannula under time pressure with incomplete information, exactly the type of decision-making the certification exam assesses.

Equipment & Tools

Equipment used in nasal cannula assessment and treatment:

AED
Automated external defibrillator for VF/pVT. Available sizes: Adult pads (over 8yo or 25kg), Pediatric pads (under 8yo or 25kg)
Pulse oximeter
Measures SpO2 via infrared absorption through capillary bed. Available sizes: Finger clip, Earlobe, Pediatric wrap
Waveform capnograph
Measures end-tidal CO2 continuously with waveform display. Available sizes: Mainstream (inline), Sidestream (sampling)
King airway
Supraglottic blind-insertion airway device. Available sizes: Size 3 (4-5 ft), Size 4 (5-6 ft), Size 5 (over 6 ft)

Workplace Applications

In daily practice, nasal cannula is applied consistently according to facility protocols and current evidence-based guidelines. Competency is maintained through annual skills validation, continuing education, and quality improvement participation.

Why It Matters

Flow rates and FiO2 tested on EMT exam.

Related Terms

Oxygen TherapyPulse Oximetry

Practice This Topic

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Frequently Asked Questions

What equipment is needed for managing nasal cannula in the field?▼
For nasal cannula: Pulse oximeter provides Measures SpO2 via infrared absorption through capillary bed. King airway provides Supraglottic blind-insertion airway device. Waveform capnograph provides Measures end-tidal CO2 continuously with waveform display.
What protocol applies to nasal cannula in prehospital care?▼
For nasal cannula: Sepsis recognition: qSOFA of 2 or more (altered mentation, RR 22+, SBP 100 or less) then IV fluids 20 mL/kg then early antibiotics if ALS
What vital signs should be monitored when assessing nasal cannula?▼
For nasal cannula: respiratory rate: 12-20 breaths/min. GCS: 15 is normal, under 8 = severe TBI. temperature: 97.8-99.1 F (36.5-37.3 C). Reassess every 5 minutes for unstable patients.