Tracheostomy complications
Background
Tracheostomy Sizes
- Average size:
- Adult: 5-10mm
- Peds: 2.5-6.5mm
Tracheostomy vs laryngectomy
It is important to differentiate between tracheostomy vs laryngectomy
- If laryngectomy[1]:
- The stoma is the only way to ventilate the patient.
- Patient cannot be orally intubated
Approach[2]
- Call for airway expert help
- Sit patient up or in a position of comfort
- Place on trach collar oxygen or place non-rebreather mask mask on trachesostmy while preparing
- If any doubt about tracheosomy vs. laryngectomy, be sure to oxygenate nasal/oral airway in addition to stoma
- Don faceshield, have suction, oxygen, flushes (possibly surgical airway supplies)
- Remove speaking valve or cap (if present)
- Remove inner cannula
- If unable to pass suction catheter at this point, deflate cuff and consider removing tracheostomy tube
Differential Diagnosis
Attempt to find out if patient has a tracheostomy vs laryngectomy from history. If the latter is present, the stoma is the only way to ventilate the patient.
Tracheostomy complications
See Also
References
- ↑ https://www.ccam.net.au/handbook/tracheostomy/ Date accessed: 4/24/2018
- ↑ National Tracheostomy Safety Project. Review date 1/4/2014
https://www.ccam.net.au/handbook/tracheostomy/ Date accessed: 4/24/2018