What Is Tracheostomy Care for Ventilator-Dependent Patients?
A tracheostomy is a curved tube that is directly inserted into the trachea (windpipe) of the patient. On the other side, it is attached to a ventilator machine to provide oxygen efficiently to the patient. For the patients who need long-term ventilator support, proper and regular tracheostomy care is a must.
If regular maintenance and cleaning of the tracheostomy tube is not maintained, then it may be blocked by secretions, may cause infection, or may lead to other serious complications. That is why daily tracheostomy cleaning and care are highly recommended.
Daily trach maintenance helps in:
- Keeping airways clear helps efficient breathing
- Reducing risks of infection
- Improving the quality of life and comfort of the patient
It is critical to follow safe tracheostomy care practices for the respiratory health maintenance of the patient, whether at home or in a specialized long-term ventilator care facility like Rite Options.
- Check out: Rite Choice Ventilator Home Services
Daily Tracheostomy Cleaning & Maintenance Tips
The nursing staff should take care of the following tips while doing trach cleaning and care:
1- Proper Hand Hygiene & Sterilization
The nursing staff must perform proper hand hygiene and use properly sterilized equipment/supplies while doing trach cleaning.
2- Clean Skin Around Stoma
Gently clean the skin around the stoma (surgically created opening in the neck). To avoid accidental movement, the tube must be secured properly.
3- Change the Trach Dressing Regularly
The dressing of the tracheostomy should be changed as needed.
4- Take Care of Infections, Swelling, Bleeding
Regularly inspect the skin for symptoms indicating infection, such as:
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Redness
- Unusual Discharge
5- Clean Inner Cannula
Clean the inner cannula, as needed. It should be properly removed, cleaned with sterile saline using a brush, dried, and reinstalled correctly.
6- Maintain Adequate Humidification
Proper humidification helps to keep secretions thin and makes them easy to clear.
7- Remove Secretions Through Suctioning
To keep the airway clear and functioning properly, secretions must be removed regularly through suctioning.
Infographic: Daily Tracheostomy Care Checklist
This infographic is a simple and step-by-step guide to maintenance and essential daily cleaning tasks for patients who are on a ventilator with a tracheostomy. These best practices should be followed to support efficient respiration, reduce complications, and provide safer long-term ventilator support.
Looking For a Professional Long-term Ventilator Care Facility?
If you have questions about specialized ventilator care or are looking for a professional long-term ventilator care facility in Vancouver, Washington, email or call (360) 944-4471 our experienced team at Rite Choice Ventilator Specialty AFH LLC to help.