Which patients may require a high-flow nasal cannula?

High-flow nasal cannula therapy is specifically designed to deliver a high concentration of oxygen to patients who are in significant respiratory distress or who require elevated levels of therapeutic oxygen. This therapy can provide a flow rate of up to 60 liters per minute, which helps to improve oxygenation and reduce the work of breathing. It is particularly effective in conditions such as pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations, or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), where patients might struggle to maintain adequate oxygen levels through standard oxygen delivery methods.

While symptoms associated with mild allergies, recovery from anesthesia, or chronic migraines may require various forms of medical attention, they typically do not necessitate the high-flow oxygen therapy that is critical for patients experiencing more acute and severe respiratory issues. Therefore, the selection of patients requiring a high-flow nasal cannula aligns directly with the management of significant respiratory challenges, making this choice the most appropriate one in the context of the question.