Suction A Tracheostomy Essay

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How to Suction a Tracheostomy A tracheostomy, or trach, is a surgically created opening in the trachea. It is important to suction a trach from time to time. Doing this: Removes mucus and other fluids that build up in the trachea. Keeps the airway clear. Makes it easier to breathe. Two people may be needed to suction a trach. SUPPLIES NEEDED Suction catheter. Clean gloves. Sterile gloves. Clean towel or paper drape. Suction machine. Connecting tubing. Sterile container. 0.9% saline solution or sterile water. HOW TO SUCTION A TRACHEOSTOMY Have all supplies ready and available. Wash your hands. Put on clean gloves. Connect one end of the connecting tubing to the suction Once these gloves are on, do not touch any nonsterile surfaces. Pick up the connecting tubing and the scatheter, and attach the connecting tubing to the catheter tubing. Check that all equipment is working right by suctioning a small amount of saline solution from the container. Suction the trach. To do this: Give extra oxygen as needed. If the person is receiving mechanical ventilation, open the suction access (swivel adapter). If necessary, remove the oxygen or humidity delivery device. Without applying suction, gently and quickly insert the catheter into the trach using your thumb and forefinger. Try to do this at a time that you feel resistance or the person coughs. Once you have inserted the catheter, pull it back ½ inch (1 cm). If the person is receiving mechanical ventilation, close the swivel adapter or replace the oxygen delivery device. Have the person take deep breaths. Rinse the catheter and connecting tubing with saline solution or sterile water until it has been cleared. Use continuous suction. Repeat these steps one or two more times until the person no longer has noisy breathing. Wait at least 1 minute before repeating these

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