What are the nursing interventions to prevent complications with tracheostomy tubes?

Table of Contents Show

High-risk groups
Uses of a Tracheostomy
Risk of a Tracheostomy
Tracheostomy Procedure
Tracheostomy Nursing Care
Nursing Diagnosis for Tracheostomy
Tracheostomy Nursing Care Plan 1
Tracheostomy Nursing Care Plan 2
Tracheostomy Nursing Care Plan 3
Tracheostomy Nursing Care Plan 4
Tracheostomy Nursing Care Plan 5
Nursing References
Disclaimer:

As with any surgery, there are some risks associated with tracheotomies. However, serious infections are rare.

Early Complications that may arise during the tracheostomy procedure or soon thereafter include:

Bleeding
Air trapped around the lungs (pneumothorax)
Air trapped in the deeper layers of the chest(pneumomediastinum)
Air trapped underneath the skin around the tracheostomy (subcutaneous emphysema)
Damage to the swallowing tube (esophagus)
Injury to the nerve that moves the vocal cords (recurrent laryngeal nerve)
Tracheostomy tube can be blocked by blood clots, mucus or pressure of the airway walls. Blockages can be prevented by suctioning, humidifying the air, and selecting the appropriate tracheostomy tube.

Many of these early complications can be avoided or dealt with appropriately with our experienced surgeons in a hospital setting.

Over time, other complications may arise from the surgery.

Later Complications that may occur while the tracheostomy tube is in place include:

Accidental removal of the tracheostomy tube (accidental decannulation)
Infection in the trachea and around the tracheostomy tube
Windpipe itself may become damaged for a number of reasons, including pressure from the tube; bacteria that cause infections and form scar tissue; or friction from a tube that moves too much

These complications can usually be prevented or quickly dealt with if the caregiver has proper knowledge of how to care for the tracheostomy site.

Delayed Complications that may result after longer-term presence of a tracheostomy include:

Thinning (erosion) of the trachea from the tube rubbing against it (tracheomalacia)
Development of a small connection from the trachea (windpipe) to the esophagus (swallowing tube) which is called a tracheo-esophageal fistula
Development of bumps (granulation tissue) that may need to be surgically removed before decannulation (removal of trach tube) can occur
Narrowing or collapse of the airway above the site of the tracheostomy, possibly requiring an additional surgical procedure to repair it
Once the tracheostomy tube is removed, the opening may not close on its own. Tubes remaining in place for 16 weeks or longer are more at risk for needing surgical closure

A clean tracheostomy site, good tracheostomy tube care and regular examination of the airway by an otolaryngologist should minimize the occurrence of any of these complications.

High-risk groups

The risks associated with tracheostomies are higher in the following groups of patients:

children, especially newborns and infants
smokers
alcohol abusers
diabetics
immunocompromised patients
persons with chronic diseases or respiratory infections
persons taking steroids or cortisone

09 May, 2016

Many nurses lack essential training to manage blocked or dislodged tracheostomy tubes. This article provides information on the care of patients with a tracheostomy Abstract The National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death in 2014 concluded that tracheostomy care fell below what is safe and reasonable to expect, and that staff needed training in this essential skill. This article, the first of a four-part series on all aspects of tracheostomy management, discusses the principles of tracheostomy care. Citation: Everitt EÂ (2016) Tracheostomy 1: caring for patients with a tracheostomy.Â Nursing Times; 112: 19, 16-20. Author:Â Erica Everitt is specialist tracheostomy practitioner at Norfolk and Norwich University Hospitals Foundation Trust. This article has been double-blind peer reviewed Scroll down to read the article orÂ download a print-friendly PDF here Click hereÂ to see other articles in this series

To continue reading this clinical article please log in or subscribe.

Already have an account, click here to sign in

Tracheostomy NCLEX Review and Nursing Care Plans

A tracheostomy is an opening that is made through the neck and into the trachea. The tracheostomy tube is inserted into the opening for breathing purposes.

Uses of a Tracheostomy

Tracheostomy is performed due to several reasons concerning the airway. The following situations may call for a tracheostomy:

The use of a breathing machine such as a ventilator for a long period, commonly more than one or two weeks.
A medical condition that involves the airway such as blockage or narrowing of the air passage. Examples are throat cancer or paralysis of the vocal cords.
Conditions that exhibit difficulty in clearing mucus out of the throat or lungs, that needs direct suctioning of the trachea to remove secretions.
Preparation for major surgery involving the head or neck.
Reconstruction of the airway after a tracheal or laryngeal surgery.
Swallowing problems that require airway protection from the food and mucus.
Trauma to the head or neck results in obstruction in the airway.
In a situation where the breathing tube cannot be placed into the throat and mouth.

Risk of a Tracheostomy

Generally, Tracheostomy is safe. However, in some cases, complications happen most of the time while the surgery is ongoing or right after the procedure is done. The risk increases when the procedure is performed in an emergency.

Early complications may include the following:

Bleeding. At the early stage of the tracheostomy procedure, bleeding commonly occurs in the windpipe or tracheostomy itself. In minor cases, it improves within a few days. But in a situation where bleeding persists, consult the physician immediately.
Injury to the trachea, thyroid glands, and nerves found in the neck
Placing or moving of the tracheostomy tube out of its proper position
Subcutaneous emphysema. This is a condition where there is stuck air in the tissue below the skin of the neck. It can cause difficulty of breathing and injury to the windpipe (Trachea) or food pipe (Esophagus).
Pneumothorax or collapsed lung. This occurs when there is an accumulation of air between the chest wall and lungs. Symptoms of the collapsed lung include chest pain, shortness, or difficulty of breathing. In some cases, pneumothorax can be a life-threatening situation.
Hematoma. This condition happens when a collection of blood in the neck area, and compresses the trachea, resulting in difficulty of breathing.

Long-term problems may occur when the tracheostomy tube is longer in place. These complications include:

Blockage in the tracheostomy tube
Dislodgement of the tube from its proper position
Blow, injury, or narrowing of the trachea.
Formation of an anomalous passage in between the trachea and brachiocephalic artery, a blood vessel that originates from the top of the main area. This artery supplies blood to the right side of the head and neck down to the right arm. This is a life-threatening complication that may result in severe bleeding and emergency treatment is highly required.
Tracheobronchitis. This is a condition in which the trachea and bronchial tubes become inflamed. Primarily due to bacterial or viral infection, and some are irritants like cigarette smoke.
Pneumonia. A patient with a tracheostomy has a higher risk of developing frequent pneumonia, especially when staying in a hospital and long-term facility.

For long-term use of tracheostomy, it is recommended to set a schedule of regular appointments for monitoring, especially for any complications. Notify the physician immediately if any of the following arises:

Bleeding at the tracheostomy site
Difficulty breathing
Pain at the tracheostomy site
Redness or swelling may indicate inflammation
Changes in the placement of the tube

Tracheostomy Procedure

Before the Procedure

At the time that the doctor determines if the patient needs to have a tracheostomy and the patient decides to undergo the procedure, informed consent must be obtained. Also, the doctor needs to assess the neck’s range of motion. The team of doctors who will perform the procedure, including a surgeon, anesthesiologists, and others need to deliberate the entire sequence and if there’s an alternative to the operation. An organized and strict procedure in preparation and actual surgery is applied and maintained to avoid any incidence of procedural complications.

During the Procedure

During the surgery, the anesthesiologist is in charge of airway management, facilitates intravenous sedation, and performs bronchoscopy. An intubation roll, cricoid hook, and tracheostomy set are also at hand. The patient is placed in a lying position, the neck is extended unless contraindicated. Anesthesia will be provided as directed by the anesthesiologist.

A small cut is performed onto the tissue to push down the thyroid isthmus. Next, bronchoscopy is performed to identify the best side to introduce the needle. The needle is placed at the lower edge of the light reflex, directed to the tracheal lumen to avoid the posterior tracheal wall. The tracheostomy tube is placed in the tracheal lumen under direct visualization.

To confirm the placement, the bronchoscope is introduced to the tracheostomy tube and placement is confirmed by seeing the carina.

To secure the tube, 2 sutures of 2-0 nylon on both sides of the flange. To make it more secure, tracheostomy tape is added to hold the tube in place.

Tracheostomy Nursing Care

Routine Tracheostomy Care

The tracheostomy tube, the stoma and the skin surrounding it need special care to prevent complications. Before being discharged from the hospital, the nurse will demonstrate to the patient the proper way of taking care of the tracheostomy tube. Routine tracheostomy care should be done at least once a day or as necessary. The following are the step-by-step procedures in tracheostomy care.

Prepare all the necessary supplies
Wash hands with soap and water before doing the procedure, dry the hands using a clean towel.
Put on sterile gloves.
Suction the tracheostomy tube to remove secretions and clear the airway.
Remove the inner cannula, put it in a basin, and pour hydrogen peroxide over it.
Clean the inner cannula using a pipe cleaner or a small brush.
Rinse the inner cannula thoroughly with normal saline solution
Dry the cannula, both inner and outer surface using a clean gauze pad.
Reinsert the inner cannula into the tracheostomy tube and secure it is locked in it.
Remove the soiled gauze dressing around the stoma. Check the skin for any sign of inflammation. Inform the doctor if any of this is present.
Clean the outer part of the cannula and the skin around the stoma using a cotton-tipped swab, soaked in a solution of half hydrogen peroxide and half water.
Get a washcloth and wet with normal saline solution, wipe away the remaining hydrogen peroxide on the skin.
Dry the exposed cannula and the skin around the stoma using a clean towel.
Change the ties and secure them properly.
Put a fine mesh gauze below the tracheostomy tie and neck plate by folding it in.
Remove the gloves and throw them in the proper trash bin
Wash the hands with soap and water. Wash the basins and small brush with water and soap. Dry them before keeping them away.

2. Suctioning a Tracheostomy Tube

Tracheal suctioning is done to remove mucus stuck in the tracheostomy tube to prevent blockage in the tracheostomy tube. It also removes secretion in the airway, to maintain clear and patent air passage. If done properly and cautiously, suctioning is a life-saving procedure by decreasing the risk of infection, build-up of secretions, and decreasing the level of oxygen. Indications of tracheal suctioning include the presence of secretions that can be visually or audible by hearing noisy respiration, signs of airway obstruction such as expanded breath sounds during expiration, an increase in respiratory effort, below-normal oxygen saturation, restlessness, and chronic cough.

Below is the step-by-step procedure when suctioning a tracheostomy tube:

Prepare the supplies needed. The size of the suction catheter will depend on the inner diameter of the tracheostomy tube.
Wash hands with soap and water. Put gloves on. As much as possible, wear an apron, goggles, and mask as protective equipment in cases of infection.
Turn on the suction machine and connect the suction connecting tube.
Connect the suction catheter to the suction connecting tube.
Position the patient to flat on the back with a pillow under the shoulders. Some patients are more comfortable in a sitting position, it may also be done.
Dip the catheter with the solution or tap water for lubrication and to check the suction machine and its circuit.
Carefully remove the inner cannula of the tracheostomy tube and insert the suction catheter into the tracheostomy tube by following the natural curvature of the tube.
Put the thumb over the suction vent intermittently while removing the catheter. Do not stay the catheter inside the tube for more than 10 seconds.
Suction an amount of solution for irrigation or clean tap water to remove residuals from the tube.
Clean the inner cannula before returning it to the tracheostomy tube.
Turn off the suction machine, discard the catheter accordingly.

3. Emergency Care of a Tracheostomy Tube

To provide safety to patients with tracheostomy, staff in charge of them must require themselves to be familiar with the procedures and equipment needed in an airway emergency. Each patient should keep an emergency tracheostomy bag which they carry during transfers and discharge. These contain pieces of equipment in inserting a new tube in the situation that the tube is dislodged or blocked.
In cases of respiratory distress, urgent assessment of ABCs and calls for emergency help are needed. If indicated, perform CPR. High flow oxygen can be administered to the nose or mouth, and the stoma.

Nursing Diagnosis for Tracheostomy

Tracheostomy Nursing Care Plan 1

Ineffective Airway Clearance related to thick and copious respiratory secretions secondary to tracheostomy as evidenced by the patient being postoperative from tracheostomy placement, ineffective cough, shortness of breath, and presence of crackles and rhonchi on auscultation.

Desired Outcome: The patient will demonstrate clear airways and normal breath sounds by discharge.

Tracheostomy Nursing Interventions	Rationale
Evaluate transition in vital signs.	An increase in heart rate and blood pressure may be connected to increase respiration. In situations of hypoxia and hypercapnia get severe, blood pressure and heart rate drop. Fever is an indication of infection
Note for any changes in respiration. Monitor the quality, rate, rhythm, expanded use of accessory muscles, and nasal flaring.	Changes may demonstrate compromised respiration. For example, increase respiratory rate and rhythm may indicate a compensatory mechanism in response to obstruction in the airway
The patient, relatives, and hospital staff will maintain frequent, proper handwashing	Patients with tracheostomy are at risk of developing an infection. Hand washing is one of the precautions to prevent transmission of infection.
Maintain and check for the humidity of air every 2 hours.	A decrease in air humidity will result in the thickening of secretions. Maintaining humidity in the air will prevent the thickening and drying of mucus.
Maintain the stoma free from mucus build-up and debris formation.	Keeping the stoma clean at all times may prevent the occurrence of blockage and infection.
Discuss the proper way of coughing secretions and deep breathing exercises.	The most effective way to expel mucus is through coughing. It can be done by the patient independently
Perform suction as needed.	Suctioning through tracheostomy will prevent build-up and blockage of mucus. Deep suctioning is sometimes required to maintain a clear airway, depending on the patient’s condition. The frequency of suction depends on the clinical status of the patient and not a routine-based procedure. Too much suctioning may result in injury to the bronchus and lung tissue.

Tracheostomy Nursing Care Plan 2

Risk for Impaired Gas Exchange

Diagnosis: Risk for Impaired Gas Exchange related to thickened tracheal secretions secondary to tracheostomy.

Desired Outcomes: The patient will sustain a sufficient gas exchange, arterial blood gas result is within the normal range and will show no signs of desaturation, oxygen saturation is maintained at 90% and greater, relaxed breathing, and alert level of consciousness.

Tracheostomy Nursing Interventions	Rationale
Evaluate respiration, rhythm, depth, effort, and quality.	Changes in respiratory rate and rhythm may indicate early respiratory distress. Fast, shallow breathing patterns may affect gas exchange. Increased breathing effort may be associated with hypoxia.
Auscultate breath sounds. Note any areas with decreased ventilation or extraneous sounds.	Impaired gas exchange can be manifested with changes in breath sounds.
Monitor any changes in heart rate and temperature.	An increase in heart rate is related to decreased oxygen levels in the blood. Developing fever can be a sign of atelectasis or secretion buildup in the lungs.
Evaluate the level of consciousness.	The presence of confusion, irritability, and restlessness can be an early indication of insufficient oxygen supply to the brain and requires an immediate response.
Check arterial blood gasses and monitor oxygen saturation.	Oxygen saturation can be monitored with the use of a pulse oximeter. It is a must to keep this at home. The normal oxygen saturation level should be at 90% or greater. Hypoxemia and respiratory acidosis are manifested by an increase in PaCo2 and a decrease in PaCo2.
Evaluate the effectiveness of the tracheostomy cuff and monitor for signs of cuff leak. Working with a respiratory therapist is recommended in determining cuff pressure	The recommended levels of cuff pressure are 20 to 25 mm Hg at maximum or lessen if the trachea can be sealed. The nurse can check if there’s a cuff leak is if there’s an air escaping upward past the vocal cords, instead of going to lower airways.

Tracheostomy Nursing Care Plan 3

Risk for Infection

Diagnosis: Risk for Infection related to surgical incision of tracheostomy secondary to tracheostomy.

Desired Outcomes: The patient will be negative from any infection, as shown by normal body temperature, normal sputum culture, normal results in white blood cell count, clear breath sounds, and clean stoma without any presence of drainage.

Tracheostomy Nursing Interventions	Rationale
Check the client’s temperature.	Fever can be a sign of an infection or the presence of inflammation
Check the skin’s integrity below tracheal ties.	Under the tracheal ties is a common site for infection and skin breakdown.
Monitor the stoma for redness, exudates, lesions. If any of these is present, inform the physician.	Mucus build-up and scratching of the tracheostomy tube may irritate the skin and can serve as a site for infection. Culture and sensitivity are advisable for antibiotic selection
Obtain white blood cell count.	Increased level of WBC can be a sign of the presence of infection, indicated by the body’s response to combat the pathogen.
Maintain the tracheostomy cuff inflated at the lowest pressure possible. To sustain adequate seal for ventilation.	To protect the airway and as required for mechanical ventilation, an inflated cuff is required. To prevent tracheal erosion, the cuff should be at the lowest pressure. It should be checked regularly, as patients are not able to vocalize while the cuff is properly inflated.
Keep the stoma clear from secretions. Wipe using an aseptic technique or suction the area if mucus accumulates in the area. Maintain the tracheostomy ties around the neck clean and dry.	A clean stoma helps in preventing skin irritation that may lead to infection. The back of the neck should be checked regularly, as secretions usually flow back.
Perform stoma care regularly.	For postoperative patients, regular stoma care is required to prevent complications. In long-term patients, stoma care is provided as needed

Tracheostomy Nursing Care Plan 4

Risk for Aspiration

Diagnosis: Risk for Aspiration related to the presence of tracheostomy tube

Desired Outcomes: The patient will not have an instance of aspiration and can eat and drink without coughing, choking, or presence of skin discoloration.

Please enable JavaScript

Nursing Stat Facts

Tracheostomy Nursing Interventions	Rationale
Assess the patient’s capacity to swallow and the type of food they can tolerate.	To check if there’s any risk for choking or aspiration.
Evaluate airway patency.	Having an open and clear air passage is important to maintain airway clearance and prevent the risk for aspiration.
Give liquid first in small amounts and gradually increase the volume as tolerated.	Provides consistency in fluid and nutrients intake, that is well tolerated to avoid aspiration.
During feedings, place the patient in an upright or sitting position, and advise the patient to maintain in that position for 30 minutes after eating	Through gravitational force, it allows the flow of foods and fluids
If choking happens, suction fluids or foods from the mouth and air passage. After feeding, limit suctioning only when necessary.	Suctioning of food will prevent aspiration. On the other hand, suctioning after meals may cause vomiting.
Discuss which type of food and liquids are allowed to eat.	It promotes food that is not only tolerable and easier to swallow, but also nutritious.
Teach companions or relatives how to suction the airway if choking happens.	In an emergency, they can provide helpful measures to prevent further complications.
Check for any food particles in tracheal secretions	Presence of food in the tracheobronchial passages indicates aspirated material
Observe the effectiveness of the cuff in patients with tracheostomy tubes.	There is an increased risk of aspiration for the ineffective cuff. To verify cuff pressure, Collaborate with a respiratory therapist.
10 Evaluate the patient and family members’ willingness and capacity to learn and adjust with swallowing, feeding, and other related disorders.	Adjustment with the proper procedure results in successful coping.

Tracheostomy Nursing Care Plan 5

Risk for Injury

Diagnosis: Risk for Injury related to tracheostomy care

Desired Outcomes: The patient will demonstrate the absence of restlessness, difficulty breathing and the tracheostomy tube will remain patent and in place.

Tracheostomy Nursing Interventions	Rationale
Evaluate for proper tube placement, patency, and if there’s any presence of leakage of air within the tube.	This provides guarantee of the efficiency of the tube function, to give an airway for oxygenation.
Check the secureness of tapes and knots. The tightness of tapes by putting a small finger in between the tape and neck	This gives safety in using ties to secure tubes, that should not be unraveled and must fit firmly without impeding the circulation
Monitor for any changes in breath sounds and respiration, depth, and rhythm.	This identifies the need of removing secretions to prevent blockage and difficulty in respiration.
Evaluate sutures by noting security tapes on both sides of the neck, any movement or dislodgement.	This assures the safety of the tracheostomy tube placement and prevents dislodgement.
Hold carefully the tube when changing the dressing. Apply ointment under the wings of the tube, replacing tapes, or during suctioning	This prevents movement of the tube that results in irritation and dislodgement of the tube.
Gently suction, intermittently, using appropriate size and technique.	This clears the air passage and removes a pool of mucus without affecting the trachea. Suctioning over time stimulates the vagus nerve, bradycardia, and blood pressure that may damage the mucosa of the trachea.
Advise the patient to monitor any signs of swelling or bleeding around the tube. If there’s labored breathing, changes in skin color, absence of air in and out of the tube, inability to insert the suction tube, choking during feeding. If any of these occur, notify the physician immediately.	This prevents further complications that may lead to severe airway damage.

Nursing References

Ackley, B. J., Ladwig, G. B., Makic, M. B., Martinez-Kratz, M. R., & Zanotti, M. (2020). Nursing diagnoses handbook: An evidence-based guide to planning care. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier. Buy on Amazon

Gulanick, M., & Myers, J. L. (2022). Nursing care plans: Diagnoses, interventions, & outcomes. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier. Buy on Amazon

Ignatavicius, D. D., Workman, M. L., Rebar, C. R., & Heimgartner, N. M. (2018). Medical-surgical nursing: Concepts for interprofessional collaborative care. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier. Buy on Amazon

Silvestri, L. A. (2020). Saunders comprehensive review for the NCLEX-RN examination. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier. Buy on Amazon

Disclaimer:

Please follow your facilities guidelines, policies, and procedures.

The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes.

This information is intended to be nursing education and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment.