High-Flow Nasal Cannula (HFNC) machines are advanced devices that provide heated and humidified oxygen at high flow rates, up to 60 litres per minute. They are used to support patients with COVID-19, pneumonia, or COPD, often helping them avoid invasive procedures like intubation.
Key parts, such as the blender and heater, make breathing easier and help clear mucus, ensuring patient comfort. HFNC machines are an important non-invasive tool in intensive care, offering a life-saving bridge to recovery and improving outcomes in emergency situations.
What is an HFNC machine?
The HFNC machine is a respiratory support device that delivers oxygen at a higher flow rate than standard oxygen therapies. It is widely used for patients with severe respiratory illnesses, enabling better oxygenation and reducing breathing effort.
Key points about the HFNC machine:
- Delivers heated and humidified oxygen to patients.
- Used in conditions like COVID-19, pneumonia, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).
- Helps avoid invasive procedures like mechanical ventilation.
The HFNC machine stands out for its comfort and efficiency in stabilising critical patients.
Uses of HFNC machine
The HFNC machine serves various clinical purposes, such as:
- Acute Hypoxemic Respiratory Failure: Helps patients with low oxygen levels due to pneumonia, COVID-19, or ARDS.
- Post-Extubation Support: Assists patients after removing mechanical ventilation, lowering the risk of needing it again.
- COPD: Helps manage breathing effort and carbon dioxide levels in people with chronic lung disease.
- Pre-Oxygenation: Provides extra oxygen before high-risk intubation procedures for safety.
- Heart Failure: Supports recovery from pulmonary oedema by reducing the heart’s workload through chest pressure.
- Paediatric Care: Treats infants with bronchiolitis or breathing difficulties in newborns.
- DNI Patients: Offers comfortable care for patients who choose not to undergo invasive ventilation.
- Sleep Apnoea: Can be used as an alternative to CPAP for patients who cannot tolerate it.
Its ability to provide high-flow oxygen makes it invaluable in emergency and critical care settings.
Importance of HFNC machine
The HFNC machine holds significant importance in respiratory care, revolutionising oxygen delivery.
- Reduces the need for invasive ventilation: The HFNC machine significantly decreases the reliance on procedures like intubation, which can be invasive and carry potential risks such as infections and airway damage. This non-invasive approach improves patient outcomes and comfort.
- Precise oxygen delivery: The machine is designed to deliver oxygen at specific flow rates tailored to the patient's needs. This ensures consistent and accurate oxygenation, which is critical in managing conditions like acute respiratory distress and hypoxemia.
- Enhances comfort: By providing humidified oxygen, the HFNC machine prevents airway dryness and irritation often associated with traditional oxygen therapy. This makes breathing easier for patients and improves their overall experience during treatment.
- Manages respiratory distress: HFNC is highly effective in addressing severe respiratory issues such as hypoxemia, acute respiratory failure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It stabilises patients quickly and supports efficient breathing.
The HFNC machine is a game-changer in respiratory care, providing non-invasive, patient-friendly solutions that accelerate recovery and improve healthcare outcomes.
Features of HFNC machine
Modern HFNC machines are equipped with advanced features that enhance their efficiency and usability:
- Adjustable flow rates: These machines can deliver oxygen at rates of up to 60 L/min, allowing tailored therapy based on the patient’s needs.
- Integrated humidification systems: A built-in humidifier ensures the oxygen delivered is moist and warm, preventing dryness and irritation in the airways.
- Real-time monitoring: Advanced sensors track and display oxygen concentration levels, ensuring accurate delivery for optimal patient care.
- User-friendly interfaces: Designed with intuitive controls and displays, these machines enable healthcare professionals to operate them with ease, even in high-pressure situations.
These features make HFNC machines a valuable tool in managing critical conditions like acute respiratory distress, providing precise and comfortable oxygen therapy for patients. Their efficiency and versatility make them essential in intensive care and emergency settings.
Parts of HFNC machine
An HFNC machine is a sophisticated device made up of essential components that work in unison to deliver effective oxygen therapy:
- Air/Oxygen Blender: Combines pressurized air and medical oxygen to deliver precise oxygen levels (21%–100%) at flow rates up to 60 L/min.
- Humidifier & Heater Base: Warms and moistens the gas (31°C–37°C) to prevent the airways from drying and help clear mucus.
- Water Chamber: A sterile container that adds essential moisture to the oxygen-air mixture.
- Heated Delivery Circuit: Insulated tubing that keeps the gas at the right temperature and avoids condensation.
- Nasal Cannula Interface: Soft, wide prongs that deliver the conditioned gas comfortably to the patient.
- Control Interface & Alarms: Monitors flow, oxygen concentration, and temperature, alerting staff to leaks or low water levels.
Each part is crucial in providing precise, comfortable, and effective oxygen therapy, making the HFNC machine an indispensable tool in respiratory care.
How does an HFNC machine work?
The HFNC machine uses a flow generator to deliver oxygen, which is heated and humidified before reaching the patient through a nasal cannula.
Steps in its operation:
- Oxygen is sourced from a supply tank.
- The flow generator regulates the flow rate.
- The humidifier adds moisture and warmth to prevent dryness.
- The nasal cannula delivers oxygen directly to the patient's airways.
This mechanism ensures effective oxygen delivery and reduces respiratory effort.
Price of HFNC Machine in India
The cost of an HFNC machine varies based on its features and brand.
| Brand | Price Range (INR) |
| Generic Models | 1,50,000 – 2,00,000 |
| Advanced Machines | 2,50,000 – 3,50,000 |
| Premium Brands | 4,00,000 – 5,00,000 |
*Prices may vary depending on the seller and additional components included.
Factors to consider while choosing HFNC machine
When selecting an HFNC machine, consider:
- Flow rate capacity: Ensure it meets patient needs.
- Humidification system: Look for effective moisture delivery.
- Ease of operation: Opt for user-friendly interfaces.
- Durability: Check for sturdy build quality.
- Warranty and service: Ensure after-sales support is available.
Choosing the right machine guarantees better outcomes and long-term reliability. For healthcare providers planning to invest in such equipment, it's essential to understand the medical equipment finance eligibility criteria to streamline the procurement process.
Financing Options for Buying HFNC Machine
The cost of an HFNC machine can be substantial, but Bajaj Finserv Medical Equipment Finance provides affordable solutions. With flexible repayment plans and competitive interest rates, healthcare providers can invest in critical equipment without straining their budget. To make informed financial decisions, it's also helpful to compare the medical equipment finance interest rate before selecting a financing partner.
However, the HFNC machine price can be a significant investment. Apply for a medical equipment loan today and ensure uninterrupted patient care. You can also explore our doctor loan, hospital loans, or a professional loan to finance your requirements. With such options, acquiring essential medical equipment becomes easier, enabling seamless patient care and financial flexibility.
Related machines
| CBC Machine |
| Echo Machine |
| Oxygen Concentrator Machine |
| BiPAP Macine |
