Instructed patient how can I prevent infections. Wash your hands. Always wash your hands before and after you care for your trach. Clean your trach equipment as directed. Use clean or sterile trach care methods to clean your equipment. Clean the area around your trach as directed. The area around your trach is called the stoma. Use a trach cover as directed. Do not use a trach cover unless your healthcare provider says it is okay. A trach cover sits over the opening to your trach tube. It prevents dirt and other foreign bodies from getting into your airway.