How it Works
Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN (14-day Free-Trial)

Tracheostomy Care


- A tracheostomy is an opening (stoma) created in the anterior wall of the trachea to provide a stable and secure airway. It is usually performed when the upper airway is obstructed or compromised by trauma, tumor, infection, or edema. It can also be done for patients who require long-term mechanical ventilation or frequent suctioning to prevent aspiration of secretions. A tracheostomy tube is inserted into the stoma to maintain its patency and facilitate ventilation.

Questions on Tracheostomy Care

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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.

Correct Answer is ["A","B","D"]

Explanation

Administering oxygen by mask may be necessary for oxygenation, but it is not specifically related to preventing tracheoesophageal fistula formation.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Silicone tracheostomy tubes are made of a soft, flexible material that can reduce the risk of tissue damage and provide greater comfort. However, the material of the tracheostomy tube is not the primary consideration for a patient with a low risk of aspiration.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

<p>This is the correct choice. Teaching the patient how to use speaking valves to facilitate speech with the tracheostomy tube in place can significantly improve communication. Speaking valves allow airflow during inhalation and redirect exhaled air through the vocal cords, enabling speech while maintaining a closed respiratory system during exhalation. This is a valuable communication method for patients with tracheostomies.</p>

Correct Answer is ["B","E"]

Explanation

<p>A sphygmomanometer is used to measure blood pressure and is unrelated to tracheostomy suctioning. It is not required for this procedure.</p>

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Administering pain medication solely for the discomfort associated with tracheostomy suctioning is not standard practice. Pain medication should only be given for clinically significant pain or as part of a larger pain management plan.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Waiting for at least 3 minutes between suctioning attempts is too long and not clinically appropriate. This extended time may lead to increased secretion buildup and potential airway obstruction, especially in patients with excessive secretions or those who are critically ill.

Correct Answer is ["C","D","E"]

Explanation

E) is essential after tracheostomy care to maintain cleanliness and protect the stoma. Proper dressing helps prevent infection and skin breakdown. Suctioning a tracheostomy tube is a sterile, invasive technique that requires a nurse or a respiratory therapist. It is done to remove secretions from the tube and prevent obstruction, infection, or hypoxia. The steps of suctioning a tracheostomy tube are:

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

<p>Skipping the procedure without a valid reason may compromise the patient&#39;s airway and respiratory function. Postponing essential procedures is not appropriate unless there are specific clinical reasons for doing so.</p>

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

E) is an important step, but it should come after the nurse gathers the necessary equipment for the suctioning procedure.

Metal tracheostomy tubes are not commonly used for patients requiring mechanical ventilation or with a high risk of aspiration. Metal tubes may be used in certain cases, but they are not the most suitable choice for this patient population.

Ensuring proper positioning and alignment of the tracheostomy tube is important, but it is not the priority in this critical situation.

<p>Trendelenburg position (Choice D) is not appropriate for tracheostomy suctioning. Trendelenburg position is typically used for certain cardiovascular conditions and not for tracheostomy care.</p>

Plastic tracheostomy tubes are commonly used in clinical practice and may be suitable for a patient ready to wean from mechanical ventilation and requiring speech therapy. However, the fenestrated tube is a more specific choice for this scenario.

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.

<p>Withdrawing the catheter gently while applying suction prevents damage to the tracheal walls and minimizes the risk of bleeding.</p>

Using an antiseptic solution to cleanse the stoma is not the appropriate action in the presence of infection. Antiseptic solutions are designed to prevent infections, not treat existing ones. Using an antiseptic could further irritate the area and delay proper treatment for the infection.

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 avail

This statement is correct. Monitoring cuff pressure and air volumes closely is essential to prevent complications and ensure appropriate cuff inflation.

An infant with a tracheostomy tube would require lower suction pressure compared to an adult. Infants have smaller airways and are more sensitive to changes in pressure. Using higher suction pressure could cause trauma to the delicate tissues in their airways.
Try Naxlex NCLEX-RN
(14 Day Free-Trial)

Search Here

More on Nursing

Free Nursing Study Materials

Access to all study guides and practice questions for nursing for free.

  • Free Nursing Study Trials
  • Free Nursing Video tutorials
  • Free Nursing Practice Tests
  • Free Exam and Study Modes
  • Free Nursing Revision Quizlets
Join Us Today