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Questions and Answers
A tracheotomy is a surgical incision into the trachea for airway management.
A tracheotomy is a surgical incision into the trachea for airway management.
True (A)
Tracheotomy is always a temporary procedure used for short term airway management.
Tracheotomy is always a temporary procedure used for short term airway management.
False (B)
A tracheotomy can prevent the risk of aspiration pneumonia.
A tracheotomy can prevent the risk of aspiration pneumonia.
True (A)
After a tracheotomy, a patient cannot eat because the tube is in the mouth.
After a tracheotomy, a patient cannot eat because the tube is in the mouth.
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Maintaining an open airway is not necessary when caring for a patient with a tracheotomy.
Maintaining an open airway is not necessary when caring for a patient with a tracheotomy.
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Study Notes
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
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Description
Test your knowledge on the tracheotomy procedure, its indications, advantages, and disadvantages. This quiz covers essential aspects of airway management through surgical intervention. Ideal for medical students and professionals involved in respiratory care.
