Tracheotomy Procedure and Management Quiz

Tracheotomy Procedure and Management

• Tracheotomy is a surgical incision into the trachea, creating an opening (stoma) for airway management. A cannula is inserted and maintained.
• It can be an emergency or elective procedure, and permanent or temporary.
• Tracheotomy tubes are made of materials like stainless steel, sterling silver, or silicone.

Indications for Tracheotomy

• Acute or chronic upper airway obstruction
• Severe pulmonary edema
• Apnea
• Edema, burns, trauma, head/neck surgery
• Laryngeal or tracheal fracture
• Thyroidectomy
• Preventing aspiration pneumonia
• Promoting pulmonary hygiene
• Bypassing an upper airway obstruction

Advantages of Tracheotomy

• Reduced risk of long-term airway damage
• Increased patient comfort (no mouth tube)
• Decreased pressure ulcers in the mouth and upper airway
• Enables eating and speaking

Disadvantages of Tracheotomy

• Potential for infection
• Bleeding
• Inflammatory tissue development
• Potential speech and swallowing difficulties

Tracheotomy Patient Care

• Maintain a patent airway: suction and clear the tube
• Monitor for respiratory distress (cyanosis, restlessness)
• Strict aseptic technique for suctioning/cleaning
• Observe for tracheotomy complications (e.g., airway obstruction)
• Maintain proper fluid and electrolyte balance
• Provide hydration and nutrition
• Provide meticulous skin care (clean and dry)

Nursing Interventions

• Hourly assessment of oxygenation (respiratory rate, effort, SaO2), and vital signs
• Monitor mucus secretions (quantity, odor, color)
• Regularly assess stoma and surrounding skin for signs of inflammation or infection (redness, swelling, drainage)
• Maintain surgical asepsis during suctioning to prevent infection

Tracheotomy Complications

• Pneumothorax
• Pulmonary infection
• Atelectasis
• Hemorrhage