nasal cannula
Pronunciation: KAN-yoo-luh
A lightweight, forked delivery device positioned in the nostrils to administer supplemental oxygen or, in dental settings, a nitrous oxide–oxygen mixture to a patient during a procedure.
Full Definition
A nasal cannula consists of a thin flexible tube with two short prongs that rest in the patient's nostrils, delivering a continuous flow of gas without covering the mouth—an important advantage in dentistry, where oral access is required. In dental anesthesiology, a modified nasal cannula fitted with a sampling port can also collect exhaled gases for capnographic monitoring, serving a dual oxygen-delivery and monitoring role. Editors should note that 'nasal cannula' is the preferred two-word noun phrase; 'nasal canula' (single 'n') is a common misspelling. The plural form is 'nasal cannulae' (formal) or 'nasal cannulas' (acceptable in clinical documents).
Usage
Usage note: Note the double 'n' in 'cannula'—'canula' is a frequent misspelling. Distinguish from 'nasal hood,' which is a larger, sealed mask used to deliver nitrous oxide via nasal inhalation and covers the nose entirely.
In Context
- "A nasal cannula with an integrated CO₂ sampling port was used to deliver supplemental oxygen and monitor ventilation simultaneously." — Sedation monitoring protocol
- "The patient tolerated the nasal cannula well, maintaining an SpO₂ of 99% throughout the procedure." — Anesthesia record