Nasal cannula (NC) flows at 1-2 L/min may also generate a positive pressure in the airway of preterm infants. The use of NC flow to generate positive airway pressure would minimize many of the application issues of nCPAP. However, NC systems used in neonates routinely employ gas that is inadequately warmed and humidified, limiting the use of such flows due to increased risk of nasal mucosa injury, and possibly increasing the risk for nosocomial infection.