Originally published on November 23, 2010 J.C. asks, "How often should a tracheostomy tube be changed? Answer: Tracheostomy tubes should be routinely changed on a regular basis to prevent infection and other complications; and in the case of children, to keep up with their growth and development. Most manufacturers recommend changing their tubes every 30-60
Originally published on October 5, 2010 B.L. asks, "What should I do if the secretions become bloody? Am I suctioning too much?" Answer: Secretions can become bloody because of tracheal irritation. And yes, this can be caused by frequent tracheal suctioning or strong coughing. However, the presence of bloody secretions should not cause you to
Originally published on October 12, 2010 Nurse C.D. asks, "What type of emergency equipment should I have at the bedside?" Answer: One must always be prepared for an emergency, and the key is to have essential items always available. These items include: extra tracheostomy tubes of the same size and type, as well as one
Originally published on October 31, 2010 B.W. asks, "What does it mean if I start to have trouble passing the suction catheter?" Answer: Meeting resistance upon passage of a suction catheter usually means one of two things: either the inner lining of the tracheostomy tube is becoming coated with secretions, or the tracheostomy tube has
Originally published on May 6, 2010 A respiratory therapy student asks, "What am I supposed to use to inflate the cuff of a Bivona TTS trach? I've heard they should be inflated with water, but I've also heard saline. Which is it...and why?" Answer: The Bivona TTS and the Arcadia CTS tubes are both made
Originally published on May 30, 2010 P.T. asks, "What is the purpose of downsizing?" Answer: The purpose of downsizing is to allow the patient to do more breathing around the tube, rather than through the tube. When the initial problem that initiated placement of the trach is resolved, downsizing may begin. For example, when the
Originally published on December 1, 2010 G.J. asks, "When patients with a tracheostomy are discharged home, what do they need to know to take care of themselves?" Answer: Patients and families who are being discharged with a new tracheostomy need a great deal of teaching in order to become comfortable with their care. Ideally, this
Originally published on July 23, 2011 B.L. asks, "How does tracheostomy dislodgement happen?" Answer: Dislodgement can be one of the most serious complications of having a tracheostomy. Dislodgement can be even more serious than complete decannulation; because when the tube is completely removed from the stoma (decannulation), the problem is clearly visible. However, when the tube
Originally published on September 13, 2011 P.S. asks, "How do I know that the tube is the correct length?" Answer: It is important to ensure that the tube is neither too short nor too long. If the tube is too short, it can be easily dislodged. If too long, the tube can become "mainstemmed" in the right
Originally published on October 2, 2011 J.D. asks, "I heard that there are many benefits for capping a trach. Can you explain?" Answer: Yes, capping a tracheostomy tube can provide many benefits; the primary benefit is usually allowing a patient to speak. First, not all tracheostomy tubes should be capped. A standard cuffed tracheostomy tube should never