Nasal high flow oxygen therapy in the ward setting: A prospective observational study.

Background: Whilst research demonstrates the benefits of nasal high flow oxygen in the intensive care setting, limited literature exists on its benefits in ward patients.

Objectives: This study evaluated the use of nasal high flow oxygen in adult ward patients with respiratory failure or at risk of respiratory deterioration. Primary outcome was an improvement in pulmonary function as indicated by decreases in respiratory and heart rates and an increase in arterial oxygen saturation via pulse oximetry RESEARCH METHODOLOGY: Using a prospective observational research design, purposeful sampling recruited 67 adult ward patients receiving nasal high flow oxygen between May and July 2015 (inclusive).