OverviewA tracheostomy is a surgical opening through the neck into the windpipe (trachea). The opening is also called a stoma. A tracheostomy helps you breathe if you have a lung or nerve problem, an infection, or trouble handling secretions. Show
Taking good care of a tracheostomy is very important. It can prevent infections and help keep you breathing easily. Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor or nurse advice line (811 in most provinces and territories) if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take. How can you care for yourself at home?General tipsYour doctor or nurse will give you instructions about how to take care of your tracheostomy, or trach (say "trayk"). This will include how to suction your trach, how to clean the opening in your neck (stoma), and how to clean and replace the trach's inner tube (inner cannula). Be sure to follow all of these instructions closely.
SuctioningAlways have suction supplies ready, including a fully charged suction machine. 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. Here are the steps to take:
Stoma careThe opening in your neck is called a stoma. To care for your stoma, clean and dry it 2 times a day, and as needed. Do not let crust form on the skin at the stoma. You will need saline fluid or sterile water, 8 or 10 cotton-tipped swabs, gauze pads, a small cup, a mirror, presplit gauze, and ointment for the skin. Follow these steps:
Cleaning the inner cannulaA cannula is the tube that fits into the stoma. Clean and replace the inner cannula 2 times each day, and as needed. For a reusable inner cannula, you will need 2 small bowls, a small cannula pipe brush, sterile water or saline fluid, and a mirror. To clean the inner cannula:
When should you call for help?Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:
Call your doctor or nurse advice line now or seek immediate medical care if:
Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor or nurse advice line if you have any problems. Make sure you have your emergency supplies, including the obturator, available when help arrives or when you arrive at the doctor's office. When should you clean your inner cannula?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 is used when inserting inner cannula of the tracheostomy?The obturator is used to insert a tracheostomy tube. It fits inside the tube to provide a smooth surface that guides the tracheostomy tube when it is being inserted. There are different types of tracheostomy tubes available and the patient should be given the tube that best suits his/her needs.
What is the purpose of an inner cannula?Inner Cannula: The inner cannula fits inside the trach tube and acts as a liner. This liner can be removed and cleaned to help prevent the build-up of mucus inside the trach tube. The inner cannula locks into place to prevent accidental removal. Note: Not all tracheostomy tubes have inner cannulas.
What is the primary reason for cleaning or replacing the inner cannula on a tracheostomy tube?Replacing and Cleaning an Inner Cannula. The primary purpose of the inner cannula is to prevent tracheostomy tube obstruction. Many sources of obstruction can be prevented if the inner cannula is regularly cleaned and replaced.
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