A client with a tracheostomy tube is experiencing dry and crusted secretions. What intervention would the nurse provide to address this issue?

Administering antibiotics.

Increasing suction frequency.

Providing humidification and hydration.

Performing daily tracheostomy tube changes.

Recommending a fenestrated tracheostomy tube.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

Choice A rationale:

Administering antibiotics would be indicated if the patient develops a respiratory infection, but it would not directly address the issue of dry and crusted secretions.

Choice B rationale:

Increasing suction frequency may help remove secretions, but it may also lead to increased irritation and trauma to the tracheal lining. It is not the first-line intervention for dry and crusted secretions.

Choice C rationale:

Providing humidification and hydration helps to moisten the secretions, making them easier to expectorate or suction. It is the most appropriate intervention to address dry and crusted secretions in a patient with a tracheostomy tube.

Choice D rationale:

Performing daily tracheostomy tube changes is not indicated solely to address dry and crusted secretions unless there is a specific problem with the current tube that requires changing.

Choice E rationale:

Recommending a fenestrated tracheostomy tube would not directly address the issue of dry and crusted secretions. Fenestrated tubes are more relevant for patients who need speech assistance, which is not the primary concern in this case.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Performing tracheostomy care every 2 to 4 hours would be too frequent for most patients and may cause unnecessary disruption and discomfort. This interval is not the recommended standard of care.

Choice B rationale:

Tracheostomy care every 4 to 6 hours strikes a balance between maintaining airway hygiene and minimizing excessive handling of the tracheostomy site, reducing the risk of complications such as infection or irritation.

Choice C rationale:

Waiting to perform tracheostomy care every 6 to 8 hours may increase the risk of mucus buildup and potential complications, especially in patients with high secretions or respiratory issues.

Choice D rationale:

Extending the interval to every 8 to 12 hours may lead to inadequate airway clearance and increased risk of complications in patients who require more frequent care.

Choice E rationale:

Waiting to perform tracheostomy care every 12 to 24 hours is too infrequent for most patients and may not be sufficient to maintain a patent airway and prevent complications.

A. "This might be due to an infection. Let's monitor for any fever or increased secretions.". B. "You should try to expectorate secretions frequently to help improve your breathing.". C. "Let's ensure the tracheostomy tube is securely positioned in the midline to prevent further narrowing.". D. "We might need to use a larger tracheostomy tube to maintain an air seal at the stoma.".

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

This choice is not appropriate because increased coughing, difficulty breathing, and stridor suggest a mechanical issue rather than an infection. Monitoring for fever or increased secretions is not addressing the potential cause of the symptoms.

Choice B rationale:

This choice is not appropriate for the presented situation. Expectorating secretions may not directly address the narrowed tracheal lumen due to scar formation, and it is not the primary intervention needed.

Choice C rationale:

This is the correct choice. Ensuring the tracheostomy tube is securely positioned in the midline can help prevent further narrowing of the tracheal lumen. Proper alignment and securing of the tube can optimize airflow and reduce complications related to scar formation.

Choice D rationale:

Using a larger tracheostomy tube may not be the most appropriate action in this situation. Enlarging the tube may not be necessary and could potentially cause other complications. It's better to ensure proper positioning and consider other interventions before resorting to a larger tube.

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A client with a tracheostomy tube is experiencing dry and crusted secretions. What intervention would the nurse provide to address this issue?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is preparing to perform tracheostomy care for a patient. What is the recommended interval for performing tracheostomy care?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is providing care for a patient with a tracheostomy who complains of increased coughing, difficulty breathing, and stridor. The nurse assesses that the tracheal lumen has narrowed due to scar formation. Which statement by the nurse is appropriate?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client with a tracheostomy tube is ready to wean from mechanical ventilation and also requires speech therapy. What type of tracheostomy tube would be the most appropriate choice for this client?

A nurse is suctioning a tracheostomy tube and wants to ensure proper oxygenation between attempts. How long should the nurse wait between each suctioning attempt?

A patient with a tracheostomy tube expresses concern about the procedure and asks, "Is this going to hurt?”. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate?

A nurse is preparing to suction a tracheostomy tube for a patient. What position should the nurse place the patient in?

A patient with a tracheostomy tube is speaking with a low risk of aspiration. What type of tracheostomy tube would be most suitable for this patient?

Which statement by the nurse regarding tracheostomy care is correct?

Select all the appropriate steps a nurse should take during tracheostomy care.

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: