A client has a tracheostomy and is at risk of tracheoesophageal fistula (TEF). Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement to prevent TEF? Select all that apply:

Choice A rationale:

Positioning the patient in semi-Fowler's position (Choice A) is an important step in tracheostomy care, but it is not the first step during the suctioning procedure. Semi-Fowler's position helps promote lung expansion and allows for better visualization during the procedure.

Choice B rationale:

Applying a new dressing around the stoma (Choice B) is essential after suctioning to maintain cleanliness and prevent infection. However, it is not the first step in the suctioning procedure. The nurse should first gather the necessary equipment.

Choice C rationale:

Cleaning the inner cannula with hydrogen peroxide (Choice C) is not the first step during suctioning. The nurse should gather equipment and supplies first before performing any cleaning or other procedures.

Choice E rationale:

Removing the old dressing and discarding it in a moisture-resistant bag (Choice E) is an important step, but it should come after the nurse gathers the necessary equipment for the suctioning procedure.

Choice D rationale:

This statement is correct. A fenestrated tracheostomy tube is designed for patients with a low risk of aspiration and are weaning from mechanical ventilation. The fenestration allows the patient to breathe through the upper airway, promoting speech and facilitating the weaning process. The fenestration can be temporarily occluded to assess the patient's readiness for decannulation.

Choice A rationale:

Monitoring cuff pressure is essential, but the suggested range of 20 to 25 cm H2O is not universally applicable. The appropriate cuff pressure range may vary depending on the patient's condition, and it should be individualized based on the patient's needs.

Choice B rationale:

Keeping the fenestration open at all times is not accurate. The fenestration can be open to allow airflow during weaning and speech therapy, but it can be temporarily occluded when assessing the patient's ability to breathe without the tube.

Choice C rationale:

The inner cannula is not solely used during mechanical ventilation. It is also used for routine cleaning and maintenance of the tracheostomy tube, regardless of the patient's ventilation status.

Choice E rationale:

Metal tracheostomy tubes are not commonly used for long-term ventilation. They are mostly used in specific situations where a plastic tube may not be suitable, such as when there is a risk of tube distortion or damage. Plastic tubes are more commonly used for long-term ventilation due to their availability, flexibility, and ease of use.