Instructed patient to secure the new ties to the tracheostomy tube flanges before removing the old ones. Insert your little finger between the tie tapes and your patient's neck to check the fit and ensure his comfort.
Instructed patient Don't cut gauze and place it under the tracheostomy tube flanges; inhalation could draw fibers into the patient\'s trachea. Use a manufactured split sponge.
Instructed patient to always keep supplies at your patient's bedside for suctioning; tube and stoma care; delivery of oxygen, heat, and humidity; tracheostomy tube replacement; and artificial ventilation.
Instructed patient to note the amount, color, consistency, and odor of tracheal and stomal secretions. Confirm the tracheostomy tube size and whether it's cuffed or fenestrated.
Instructed patient how to reinsert the inner cannula and securely lock it into place.
Instructed patient to place a sterile split sponge under the tube flanges to absorb secretions.
Place the call bell where your patient can easily reach it.
Instructed patient Don't clean and reuse an inner cannula designed for one-time use.
Instructed patient Don't lavage with 0.9% sodium chloride solution during suctioning unless you need to clear a blockage of clots or mucus.
Patient was instructed on proper suctioning technique. To take a deep breath before applying suction to prevent depleting lung from oxygen.