It may washout nasopharyngeal dead space and overcome
nasopharyngeal resistance with flow, causing positive
distending pressure and improved conductance and compliance.
Retrospective reviews showed decreased need for intubation,
decreased RR and decreased LOS in PICU with no adverse effects.
On the other hand, it was concluded that there is insufficient
evidence to determine the effectiveness of HFNC (no
clear evidence of decreased duration of O2 therapy or LOS).
It may be useful in severe illness, but is not recommended for
routine use