|
The Proper Way Of Caring For Your Tracheostomy Apparatus |
Written by Jinky Mesias
Tuesday, 31 May 2005
|
In cases wherein there is a severe lung disorder, neurological problem as well as infection which makes it hard for patients to breathe the most common solution is to perform a tracheostomy. Tracheostomy is a surgical procedure performed to keep the windpipe open in order to have ample supply of air for tracheostomy patients. During the course of the procedure the doctor creates a small opening called a stoma through the skin on the throat in which a breathing tube is inserted directly into trachea. The tube which is called a trach has three parts and these are as follows: obturator which is used to place the trach into the windpipe. However, when this part is removed an outer tube remains. This outer tube has a plastic trach plate that is placed against the skin on the neck and is used to keep the trach in position. And aside from that, there is also an inner tube that fits the inside the outer tube and then locks it into place. This trach tube is sometimes sewn into the skin just around the stoma or it can be held in place by means of trach ties. In addition, there are some trach tubes that have inflatable cuff located near the outer end in order to keep the trach tubes from protruding out. Another purpose of this cuff is to prevent the air from leaking around the trach tube. It is also important to clean daily the inner tube since there are times when this tube becomes clogged by mucus and such case calls to have the mucus suctioned out to clear the inner tube. A dirty tube may lead to infection and if ever the trach clogs up tracheostomy patients may find it impossible to breathe. Here are simple ways on how to clean those tracheostomy apparatus/gadgets: •clean the inner tube at least once a day •use a small bowl, a small brush, liquid soap, a gauze pad and scissors •make use of a mirror to guide you in finding the right position wherein you can see your face and most importantly your throat •always remember to wash your hands with soap and water before touching the trach •carefully unlock the inner tube and remove it by pulling it gently out and down •gently and carefully put a wet inner tube inside the outer tube and then again carefully lock the inner tube in place. •Clean the dirty tube by means of soaking it in a liquid soap mixed with water. Afterwards gently scrub it using a small brush. However, if the tube is extremely dirty it is advisable to soak it in 3% hydrogen peroxide and then brush it. •Rinse the tube thoroughly and preferably in a running water and then make sure that the soap as well as the hydrogen peroxide has been completely rinsed off the tube. And lastly, don't forget to see your doctor if ever you experience shortness of breathing or call 911 for emergency cases. Article Source: http://www.ArticleBlast.com |
About The Author:
Author's Bio: Jinky C. Mesias is a lover of simple things and of nature. She spends most of her time reading and writing poetry.
For suggestions and comments about the article kindly log on to http://www.discountmedicalsupplycompany.com
You are welcome to publish this article free of charge on your website, newsletter, or e-zine, provided:
- You don't change the article in any way
- You include the entire article, including the "about the author" box
- All hyperlinks must remain intact, including email addresses, and the link to ArticleBlast.com at the bottom
- In doing so you agree to indemnify the article's author, and ArticleBlast.com and its directors, officers, employees and agents from and against all losses, claims, damages and liabilities which arise out of its use
- It is also recommended that you provide a courtesy copy of your publication to the author of the article
