Tracheostomy care and suctioning

Summary

This video demonstrates the proper technique for performing tracheostomy care, specifically suctioning, a crucial procedure often done in ICU or surgical settings. It covers the preparation of sterile equipment, proper patient positioning, and the step-by-step process of suctioning mucus from the tracheostomy tube. The importance of maintaining sterility, controlling pressure, and ensuring patient comfort is emphasized. The video also includes tips on cleaning the tube, applying protective gauze, and recognizing signs of complications. Overall, it provides an informative guide for healthcare professionals to safely perform tracheostomy care and ensure patient safety.

Takeaways

• 😀 Proper hand hygiene is essential before performing tracheostomy care to maintain sterility and prevent infections.
• 😀 Tracheostomy care involves suctioning to clear the airway, and it must be performed in a sterile manner to prevent contamination.
• 😀 A suction machine with a pressure gauge and suction catheter is used during the procedure. Suction pressure should be kept at a low setting (negative 20 mmHg) to avoid damaging the trachea.
• 😀 Always position the patient at a 30-45 degree angle to make suctioning more effective and comfortable for the patient.
• 😀 Normal saline and sodium bicarbonate are essential supplies used for suctioning and cleaning, ensuring the suction catheter is decontaminated afterward.
• 😀 Sterile gloves and sterile techniques are critical during the procedure to avoid introducing infection to the airway.
• 😀 The suction catheter should be connected to the suction tube carefully, ensuring it does not come into contact with non-sterile surfaces.
• 😀 Suctioning should be done quickly and efficiently to avoid excessive trauma to the airway. Use circular motions while suctioning.
• 😀 After suctioning, the area around the tracheostomy tube should be cleaned, and any used equipment should be disposed of properly.
• 😀 Vaseline gauze is used to protect the skin around the tracheostomy tube, preventing irritation and excoriation.
• 😀 The procedure should be completed in under 5 minutes to minimize patient discomfort and ensure safety. Regular practice is key to proficiency.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of tracheostomy care?

The primary focus of tracheostomy care is suctioning to clear the airway and prevent infections. Suctioning is performed through the tracheostomy tube to remove secretions.

Why is tracheostomy care a sterile procedure?

Tracheostomy care is a sterile procedure to prevent introducing infections into the tracheostomy tube, which extends into the trachea and respiratory system.

What equipment is needed for suctioning during tracheostomy care?

The necessary equipment includes a suction machine, suction catheter, sterile gloves, normal saline, sodium bicarbonate, gauze, cotton, Vaseline gauze, and sterile towels.

What is the recommended pressure setting on the suction machine for tracheostomy care?

The recommended pressure setting on the suction machine for airway suctioning is a negative pressure of 2 bars or 20 mmHg to avoid damaging the trachea.

What should be done before starting the suctioning procedure?

Before starting, you should wash your hands, ensure the patient is positioned at a 30-45 degree angle, get consent, and prepare all necessary equipment.

What is the correct technique for inserting the suction catheter?

The suction catheter should be inserted up to 15-20 cm into the tracheostomy tube without occluding the catheter opening. Once in place, suctioning should be done in a circular motion while withdrawing the catheter.

How long should suctioning be performed at a time?

Suctioning should be performed for no more than 10-15 seconds to prevent hypoxia and avoid unnecessary trauma to the airway.

What is the purpose of using Vaseline-coated gauze around the tracheostomy tube?

Vaseline-coated gauze is used around the tracheostomy tube to prevent skin excoriation and protect the skin from damage caused by the tube.

Why is it important to keep the suction catheter sterile during the procedure?

It is crucial to maintain the suction catheter's sterility to avoid introducing harmful microorganisms into the airway, which could lead to infections.

What should be done after completing the suctioning procedure?

After suctioning, disconnect the suction catheter, place it in sodium bicarbonate for decontamination, and clean the area around the tracheostomy tube. The patient should be reassured, and their comfort should be checked.