Maintaining a patent airway is a critical nursing priority for tracheostomy patients. Sterile technique during suctioning and proper cuff management are vital.
Suctioning Guidelines
- Suction pressure: 80 - 120 mmHg for adults.
- Pre-oxygenate the patient with 100% O2 before insertion.
- Limit suctioning duration to 10-15 seconds per pass.
- Apply suction only during withdrawal of the catheter, using a rotating motion.
Emergency Alert: If accidental decannulation occurs in a mature tract, immediately insert a spare tracheostomy tube. In an immature tract, insert an obturator or dilator to keep the stoma open, and call for emergency assistance.
