Reflections on Nursing Care for Tracheostomy Patients

What is an important nursing action when suctioning the secretions of a client with a tracheostomy?

a) Use a new sterile catheter with each insertion.

b) Initiate suction as the catheter is being withdrawn.

c) Insert the catheter until the cough reflex is stimulated.

d) Remove the inner cannula before inserting the suction catheter.

Answer:

The important nursing action when suctioning the secretions of a client with a tracheostomy is to initiate suction as the catheter is being withdrawn.

When caring for a client with a tracheostomy, ensuring proper suctioning technique is crucial to maintain airway patency and prevent complications. One important nursing action during suctioning is to initiate suction as the catheter is being withdrawn.

Using a new sterile catheter with each insertion may not be necessary and is not a cost-effective practice. Inserting the catheter until the cough reflex is stimulated can lead to discomfort for the patient and potential airway damage. Removing the inner cannula before inserting the suction catheter is not always required and may cause unnecessary steps in the procedure.

By initiating suction as the catheter is being withdrawn, the nurse can effectively remove secretions without causing trauma to the airway. This technique also helps stimulate the patient to cough, aiding in clearing the airway of mucus and debris.

It is essential for nurses to receive proper training and ongoing education on tracheostomy care to provide safe and effective care for patients with artificial airways.