Tracheostomy Flashcards
What is a tracheostomy?
A surgical procedure that creates an open airway in the trachea
What are the indications for a tracheostomy?
Upper airway obstructions (increased mucous)
What is the created opening called?
A stoma
What must the nurse always have at the bedside?
An obturator, a stiff plastic device used for inserting the inner cannula
Is suctioning a client with a trach a clean or sterile procedure
Sterile
What should the nurse always do before suctioning a client with a trach?
Hyperoxygenate with 100% 02
Should suction be applied during insertion of the catheter?
No, this can cause damage to the client
What should the nurse always do after suctioning a client with a trach?
Reoxygenate with 100% 02 2-3 times during inhalation
If a client coughs strongly and the trach becomes dislodged, what is the initial nursing action?
Keep airway open by reinserting obturator or grabbing retention sutures. Give 02 if airway lost!
If a client is NOT on a ventilator but has a trach, should the inner cuff be inflated?
No, it should be deflated so as not to block airway
