CLINICAL OVERVIEW

Tracheostomy Care for Hospitalized Adults

This clinical overview provides a practical resource for health professionals responsible for tracheostomy care in hospitalized adults. It begins with a detailed description of tracheostomy tube components, including the outer and inner cannula, flange, cuff, speaking valve, and fenestrations, emphasizing their functions and clinical implications. The overview outlines essential bedside equipment for routine and emergency tracheostomy care, highlighting the importance of preparedness. It then delves into general tracheostomy care procedures, covering tube cleaning, stoma care, cuff pressure monitoring, and secretion management techniques, including pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic approaches. The overview also provides step-by-step instructions for routine tracheostomy tube exchange and emergency management of complications like bleeding, tube displacement, and obstruction. Special considerations for patients with obesity are addressed, emphasizing their increased risk of airway complications and the need for heightened vigilance. Finally, the overview includes an algorithm for managing tube obstruction, providing a quick reference for clinicians facing this common emergency.