Help! Issues with Nasal Prongs

Specialties NICU

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Wondering if anyone knew of any literature re: the longer nasal prongs versus cannula for preemies. I'm having terrible time with these prongs when baby is prone or side-lying. VERY uncomfortable for the baby, tubing disconnects, seems like skin breakdown is a much bigger issue than with cannulas. I'd like to bring it up at a meeting, but I'm having trouble finding an article that will support my concerns. Anyone know anything? Thanks in advance!

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Specializes in ECMO.
Wondering if anyone knew of any literature re: the longer nasal prongs versus cannula for preemies. I'm having terrible time with these prongs when baby is prone or side-lying. VERY uncomfortable for the baby, tubing disconnects, seems like skin breakdown is a much bigger issue than with cannulas. I'd like to bring it up at a meeting, but I'm having trouble finding an article that will support my concerns. Anyone know anything? Thanks in advance!

comfort wise or physiologic effects?

i would search the respiratory care journal.

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What kind of PEEP are you using? If you have a kid on a PEEP of 6 or 7 you'll have a hard time convincing the staff to switch to cannula. With a lower setting you'd be better off finding support in the use of Vapo Therm, a high flow humidified cannula set up.

What are you using for CPAP? If you use the Alladin, they have masks and prongs. We rotate them to reduce breakdown.

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