A Mixed Methods Study of Inpatients’ Experiences, Priorities, and Health-Related Quality of Life During High- Flow Nasal Cannula Therapy

Authors

• Cintamani H. Ellsworth, Northern Arizona HealthcareFollow
• Rebecca S. Bartlett, Northern Arizona UniversityFollow

Publication Date

9-15-2026

Keywords

oxygen, quality of life, patient experience, hospitalization, nasal cannula

Abstract

Purpose: High-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is an oxygen delivery method with numerous benefits for severely ill patients. There is a paucity of research focused on the perspectives of patients receiving HFNC oxygen therapy. This study aimed to engage with patients to gain a clearer understanding of their experiences, priorities, and health-related quality of life.

Methods: A cross-sectional, mixed methods study was completed with 10 adult inpatients who had received HFNC oxygen therapy during their hospital admission. Semi-structured interviews and the Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) Global Health Scale were used to identify participant perceptions of their physical and mental health, priorities, and impressions of activities of daily living, such as eating, drinking, and communicating.

Results: T-scores from the PROMIS Global Health Scale indicated that overall, participants rated their physical health as fair and their mental health as good. Analysis of semi-structured interviews identified three themes: Perceptions of the HFNC Experience, Re-conceptualizing Health in the Context of Severe Illness, and Redirecting the Interview Narrative.

Conclusions: Inpatients on HFNC can be supported by addressing their concerns related to unpleasant side effects of the HFNC device, facilitating their return to autonomy, and identifying and removing barriers to social support systems. Healthcare institutions can demonstrate their commitment to patient-centered care by seeking to understand the patient perspective and using that information to guide organizational decisions.

Recommended Citation

Ellsworth CH, Bartlett RS. A mixed methods study of inpatients’ experiences, priorities, and health-related quality of life during high-flow nasal cannula therapy. J Patient Cent Res Rev. 2026;13:115-25.