How is supplemental oxygen typically delivered through a nasal cannula?

• A. As a liquid
• B. Through plastic tubing into the nose and mouth
• C. As a gas through the prongs in the nostrils
• D. Through a mask over the face

Answer: (C)

Supplemental oxygen is typically delivered through a nasal cannula as a gas through the prongs that fit directly into the nostrils. This method allows for a continuous flow of oxygen that the patient can inhale while still being able to talk, eat, or perform other activities without much interference. The design of the nasal cannula, with its two small prongs, ensures that oxygen is comfortably and efficiently administered directly to the respiratory system, facilitating better oxygenation for individuals who are experiencing difficulty in breathing or who need additional oxygen to maintain adequate levels in their blood.

Other methods, such as delivering oxygen as a liquid, would not be practical or safe for respiratory therapy in this form. Similarly, using a mask or alternative delivery systems, while effective in certain settings, is not the standard mechanism for administering oxygen via nasal cannula. The nasal cannula is specifically catered to provide oxygen therapy efficiently and discreetly, largely contributing to its widespread use in both clinical and home settings.