What intervention is appropriate for a client receiving oxygen via nasal cannula at 5 L/min?

• A. Increase oxygen flow to 10 L/min
• B. Switch to a simple face mask
• C. Encourage deep breathing only
• D. Apply water-soluble lubricant to nostrils for dryness

Answer: (D)

The main concept is preventing nasal mucosa dryness that can occur with oxygen delivered through a nasal cannula. At five liters per minute, the flow can feel drying to the inside of the nose, making the patient uncomfortable and potentially causing crusting or epistaxis, which can interfere with continued oxygen therapy. Applying a water-soluble lubricant to the nostrils helps moisturize the mucosa, reduce friction, and keep the passages comfortable so the patient can keep receiving the prescribed oxygen without interruption. It’s important to use a water-soluble product rather than petroleum-based lubricants, since petroleum-based options can pose a fire risk around supplemental oxygen.

Increasing the flow to ten liters per minute isn’t indicated without ensuring proper humidification and assessment, and switching to a simple face mask changes the delivery method rather than addressing the dryness. Encouraging deep breathing alone doesn’t resolve the mucosal dryness or improve the comfort needed to maintain the prescribed oxygen therapy.