What is one method of administering oxygen therapy?

Nasal cannula is one method of administering oxygen therapy that allows for a safe and effective delivery of supplemental oxygen to patients. This device consists of a lightweight tube with two small prongs that fit into the nostrils, delivering oxygen directly to the patient's respiratory system while allowing for comfortable speech and the ability to eat or drink.

The use of a nasal cannula is particularly beneficial because it can provide continuous oxygen flow without being overly invasive. It can be easily adjusted for patients based on their oxygen needs and comfort level. This method is widely utilized in clinical practice for various conditions that require oxygen supplementation, including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pneumonia, and acute respiratory distress.

Other methods mentioned are not used for administering oxygen therapy and are relevant for completely different types of treatments. For example, pill form is used for oral medications, topical ointments are applied to the skin for localized treatment, and syringe injection is used for delivering medications directly into the body through a puncture in the skin. These forms are unsuitable for providing oxygen, underscoring the specific necessity of using a nasal cannula for oxygen therapy.