Oxygen therapy

Bustamante Hernández S.; García-Salido A.; Ballestero Díez Y.; Bermúdez-Barrezueta L.; León González J.S.; Alcarraz Alcarraz M.; González García J. · Anales de Pediatria (2026) · DOI: 10.1016/j.anpedi.2026.504318

Resumen

Oxygen therapy is a key intervention in the management hypoxemia that should be approached as a titrated, monitored, and stepwise therapy and integrated in the overall care of pediatric patients. This article provides a practical overview of the main indications for oxygen therapy in acute and chronic conditions, as well as the various delivery systems available. It describes low-flow devices, such as cannulas and simple or reservoir masks, and high-flow systems, including Venturi masks and high-flow nasal cannula, highlighting their characteristics, advantages, and limitations. Emphasis is placed on the importance of a comprehensive clinical evaluation for selecting the most appropriate device, rather than relying solely on oxygen saturation levels. It also reviews the current evidence on the use of high-flow nasal cannula in common conditions, such as bronchiolitis. Finally, the article addresses the associated adverse events and relevant practical considerations, such as the calculation of oxygen consumption during patient transport.