Prepare necessary equipment and supplies for tracheostomy care
4
Perform hand hygiene
5
Wear personal protective equipment
6
Greet the patient and explain the procedure
7
Put patient in the right position (typically semi-fowler's)
8
Remove the old dressing and inspect tracheostomy site
9
Clear the stoma area and tube from secretions
10
Approval: Nursing Supervisor for secretion clearance
11
Replace the dressing with a new one
12
Change the tracheostomy tube if necessary
13
Assist patient with humidification needs
14
Ensure patient's comfort after procedure
15
Document care provided and patient's response
16
Dispose of used materials and clean equipment
Assess patient's general health status
Evaluate the patient's overall health and well-being. Assess any specific conditions, symptoms, or concerns that may impact the tracheostomy care plan. Take into account the patient's medical history, vital signs, and any recent changes in health. Identify any potential risks or contraindications for tracheostomy care.
Check physician's order for tracheostomy care
Review the physician's instructions and orders for tracheostomy care. Ensure that the care plan aligns with the physician's prescribed treatment. Verify any specific procedures, medication administration, or precautions outlined in the order.
Prepare necessary equipment and supplies for tracheostomy care
Gather all the required equipment and supplies for tracheostomy care. This may include sterile gloves, tracheostomy tube, sterile saline solution, suction catheters, sterile dressing, and a suction machine. Ensure that all items are clean and readily accessible to provide efficient care.
1
Sterile gloves
2
Tracheostomy tube
3
Sterile saline solution
4
Suction catheters
5
Sterile dressing
6
Suction machine
Perform hand hygiene
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Hand hygiene is crucial to prevent the spread of infection and ensure patient safety during tracheostomy care.
Wear personal protective equipment
Put on personal protective equipment (PPE) before initiating tracheostomy care to maintain a sterile environment and protect yourself and the patient from potential infections. PPE includes gloves, a gown, a mask, and eye protection if necessary.
1
Gloves
2
Gown
3
Mask
4
Eye protection
Greet the patient and explain the procedure
Introduce yourself to the patient and explain the tracheostomy care procedure in a clear and empathetic manner. Ensure that the patient understands what will happen during the care, any sensations they may feel, and the importance of cooperation to ensure their comfort and safety.
Put patient in the right position (typically semi-fowler's)
Place the patient in the appropriate position for tracheostomy care, which is usually semi-fowler's position. This positioning helps facilitate breathing and reduces the risk of aspiration.
Remove the old dressing and inspect tracheostomy site
Carefully remove the existing dressing from the tracheostomy site. Observe the site for any signs of infection, redness, irritation, or other abnormalities. Document any changes or concerns observed during the inspection.
Clear the stoma area and tube from secretions
Use a sterile saline solution or prescribed solution to clean the tracheostomy stoma and tube. Gently suction any secretions or mucus that may obstruct the airway or tracheostomy tube. Ensure proper technique to prevent injury or discomfort to the patient.
1
Sterile saline solution
2
Prescribed solution
1
Apply saline solution to stoma
2
Suction secretions gently
Approval: Nursing Supervisor for secretion clearance
Will be submitted for approval:
Clear the stoma area and tube from secretions
Will be submitted
Replace the dressing with a new one
Apply a new, sterile dressing to the tracheostomy site following proper aseptic technique. Ensure that the dressing is secure and does not impede breathing or cause discomfort to the patient. Document the details of the new dressing applied.
Change the tracheostomy tube if necessary
Assess the need for tracheostomy tube change based on the patient's condition and physician's instructions. If indicated, carefully remove the current tracheostomy tube and replace it with a new sterile tube following proper technique and precautions. Monitor the patient for any signs of distress during the tube change.
1
Yes
2
No
1
Ensure the patient's airway is patent
2
Have a spare tracheostomy tube available
3
Monitor for signs of distress
Assist patient with humidification needs
Assist the patient in maintaining appropriate humidity levels for tracheostomy care. This may include providing humidified air, adjusting room humidity, or ensuring the patient has access to a humidifier. Collaborate with the healthcare team to address the patient's specific humidification needs.
1
Humidifier
2
Humidified air
3
Room humidity adjustment
Ensure patient's comfort after procedure
Check the patient's comfort level after tracheostomy care. Provide necessary interventions to promote comfort, such as pain management, repositioning, or providing communication tools if applicable. Communicate with the patient to address any concerns or discomfort they may have.
Document care provided and patient's response
Accurately document the care provided during tracheostomy care and the patient's response or any observations made. Include details such as vital signs, any changes in condition, complications, or concerns. Proper documentation ensures continuity of care and effective communication among healthcare providers.
Dispose of used materials and clean equipment
Properly dispose of any used materials, such as gloves, dressings, or suction catheters, in appropriate biohazard containers. Clean and disinfect reusable equipment according to hospital protocols and infection control guidelines. Ensure that all waste and equipment cleaning procedures are in compliance with safety standards.