Comparative Efficacy of High-flow Nasal Cannula and Mechanical Ventilation in COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit Patients: A Saudi Arabian Retrospective Analysis

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has profoundly affected respiratory care in intensive care units (ICUs) globally, necessitating an evaluation of various respiratory support methods to enhance patient care. This study compares the efficacy of high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) and mechanical ventilation (MV) in treating COVID-19 patients in ICUs, aiming to refine treatment strategies in this critical setting. Methods: In this retrospective analysis, we examined a cohort of COVID-19 ICU patients who received either HFNC or MV. The study included patients with confirmed COVID-19, necessitating ICU admission and respiratory support. We collected comprehensive clinical data, including demographics, medical history, and treatment outcomes. Advanced statistical methods were applied to evaluate the effectiveness of HFNC versus MV, considering diverse clinical parameters. Results: The study’s findings highlight the key differences in the effectiveness of HFNC and MV among COVID-19 ICU patients. Our data showed distinct recovery patterns and respiratory support needs between patients treated with HFNC and those receiving MV, providing crucial insights into their management in ICU settings. Conclusion: This research illuminates the vital aspect of respiratory support in COVID-19 ICU patient care. The comparative analysis of HFNC and MV reveals differing clinical outcomes, emphasizing the need for personalized respiratory support strategies. These findings have broad implications, offering valuable guidance for clinical practices and future research in respiratory care during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.