A nationwide survey on the use of Heated Humidified High Flow Oxygen therapy on the paediatric wards in the UK: current practice and research priorities
Abstract BackgroundHeated Humidified High Flow Nasal Cannula Oxygen Therapy (HHFNC) is increasingly used on the paediatric wards and High Dependency Units (HDU) for different types of pathologies and different age groups. We aimed to describe current practice related to the use of HHFNC on the paediatric wards and HDUs, weaning practices and preferred outcome measures for future research.MethodsWe carried out a cross-sectional online survey of UK paediatric consultants or their delegates working on the paediatric wards. Descriptive analysis of the their geographical, and organizational characteristics, their specialties, and their level of experience was investigated. Reasons for HHFNC initiation, weaning criteria, patients’ characteristics and their primary pathologies were also analysed.ResultsParticipation of 218 paediatricians from 81 hospitals (Median: 2.7, Range: 1-11) was registered. HHFNC was provided in most of the surveyed hospitals (93%, 75/81). A High Dependency Unit (HDU) was available in 47 hospitals (58%); less than a third of those have a dedicated paediatrician. Decisions around HHFNC were made solely by paediatricians in (75%) of the cases, mostly at hospitals with no HDU compared to those with dedicated HDUs (70.3% VS 36.6%, 95%CI:22.6%-50.4%, P< .001). Most respondents (72%) agreed that HHFNC is either the same or superior to nasal Continuous Positive Airway Pressure therapy (nCPAP). Failure rate while on HHFNC was identified as the most important outcome measure in any future research followed by the length of need for HHFNC support (37.1%, and 28% respectively). ConclusionThis survey showed support for developing a paediatric-specific national guidance on the use of HHFNC on the wards. Our list of defined research priorities may help guide further collaborative research efforts in this field.