What are 5 nursing considerations when caring for a patient with a tracheostomy?
Procedure
- Clearly explain the procedure to the patient and their family/carer.
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Use a standard aseptic technique using non-touch technique.
- Position the patient.
- Perform hand hygiene and apply non-sterile gloves.
- Remove fenestrated dressing from around stoma.
How often should tracheostomy care be done for patient?
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.
How do you care for a patient with a tracheostomy?
Caring for Your Tracheostomy
- Suction your tracheostomy tube. This clears the secretions from your airway so it’s easier to breathe.
- Clean the suction catheter. This helps prevent infection.
- Replace the inner cannula.
- Clean your skin around your tracheostomy.
- Moisturize the air you breathe.
How do you take care of a tracheostomy at home?
Rinse the tube and obturator well in water. 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.
Can an RN change a trach tube?
The first tracheostomy tube change should be performed by the physician after 3 to 5 days when the tract is well formed. Thereafter, the tube may be changed by a registered nurse for the following indications: Physician order. Weekly tracheostomy change for hygiene measures.
What should a trach patient have at bedside?
Recommended pediatric bedside equipment:
- Spare tracheostomy tube (same size) plus tapes.
- Half-size smaller tracheostomy tube plus tapes.
- Round-ended scissors.
- Spare tapes.
- KY Jelly.
- Syringe and saline.
- Suction catheter.
Can a person with a trach eat food?
Most people will eventually be able to eat normally with a tracheostomy, although swallowing can be difficult at first. While in hospital, you may start by taking small sips of water before gradually moving on to soft foods, followed by regular food.
How long is recovery after tracheostomy?
Your Recovery After surgery, your neck may be sore, and you may have trouble swallowing for a few days. It may take 2 to 3 days to get used to breathing through the tracheostomy (trach) tube. You can expect to feel better each day. But it may take at least 2 weeks to adjust to living with your trach (say “trayk”).