How do you care for a patient with a tracheostomy?

Caring for Your Tracheostomy

  1. Suction your tracheostomy tube. This clears the secretions from your airway so it’s easier to breathe.
  2. Clean the suction catheter. This helps prevent infection.
  3. Replace the inner cannula.
  4. Clean your skin around your tracheostomy.
  5. Moisturize the air you breathe.

How do you take care of a tracheostomy at home?

Soak in ½ strength vinegar and water for 2-3 hours in a clean container. Rinse the vinegar solution off and place the trach on a clean, dry paper towel to air dry. Place a clean paper towel over the wet tube and obturator to protect from dust and let dry overnight.

What are the nursing interventions for a patient with a tracheostomy?

When caring for a patient with a tracheostomy, nursing care includes suctioning the patient, cleaning the skin around the stoma, providing oral hygiene, and assessing for complications. Normal functions of the upper airway include warming, filtering, and humidifying inspired air.

How often should trach care be done?

The tracheostomy inner cannula tube should be cleaned two to three times per day or more as needed. Please note that this only applies to reusable inner cannulas. Cleaning is needed more immediately after surgery and when there is a lot of mucus buildup.

What equipment is needed for tracheostomy care at home?

Tracheostomy dressing. Tracheostomy ties and/or Velcro tube holder. Tracheostomy brushes/pipe cleaners. A plastic basin for cleaning the inner cannula/tracheostomy tube.

Why is suctioning important in a tracheostomy?

Suctioning clears mucus from the tracheostomy tube and is essential for proper breathing. Also, secretions left in the tube could become contaminated and a chest infection could develop. Avoid suctioning too frequently as this could lead to more secretion buildup.

What are the three main complications of tracheal suctioning?

What are the Main Complications of Tracheal Suctioning?

  • Hypoxia. Intubation can interrupt the inspiration of oxygen.
  • Traumatic Injuries. Traumatic injuries to the airway and surrounding structures are common.
  • Pain.
  • Bradycardia.
  • Infection.
  • Anxiety and Psychological Distress.
  • Take Iatrogenic Injuries Seriously.

How often should a trach be suctioned?

Suction the trach 3 to 4 times a day, or more if needed. For example, two of the times could be before you go to bed and when you wake up in the morning. You will need suction catheters, a suction machine, and a mirror.