Instructed patient what to do if a person has trouble breathing The most common reason for breathing problems, other than an illness, is If you have trouble passing the catheter into the trach and it feels tight, put a few drops of saline into the tube and try to suction again. Do not force the catheter; it may push the plug in further. If you are unable to remove the mucus plug, change the trach tube and try to suction again.
Instructed patient about some common ways to keep the air you breathe moist are:putting a wet gauze or cloth over the outside of your tube. Keep it moist, ,using a humidifier in your home when the heater is on and the air is dry. A few drops of salt water (saline) will loosen a plug of thick mucus. Put a few drops in your tube and windpipe, then take a deep breath and cough to help bring up the mucus.
Instructed patient Clean technique includes: Hand washing, Using gloves is optional. Re-using a trach tube and/or inner cannula that has been properly cleaned, Using prepared sterile water and normal saline. Re-using the same trach ties if they are properly cleaned. Re-using suction catheters if they are properly cleaned(up to 8 hrs or 3/per day)
Instructed patient the following is a list of preventive measures that may help to avoid some problems: Make sure the trach is getting enough humidity. Humidity will keep the mucus loose and decrease the chances of a mucus plug. If you hear a whistling sound from the trach, this might mean that the airway is dry. Always make sure the trach ties are securely fastened and are tight enough around the neck.
Instructed patient caregiver that It is normal to feel some pain and discomfort for about a week after the tracheostomy procedure. If you have difficulty breathing and it is not relieved by your usual method of clearing secretions. when secretions become thick, if crusting occurs or mucus plugs are present. Your physician may recommend increasing.
Instructed patient contact your healthcare provider or physician immediately: if you have an irregular heart rate, if you feel increased pain or discomfort and if you have difficulty breathing and it is not relieved by your usual method of clearing secretions. Patient verbalized understanding.
Instructed caregiver include ensuring that the tracheotomy tube is securely in place and is patent.
Instructed caregiver about adequate hydration is necessary to keep secretions thin and mobile. Humidified tracheostomy collars provide some moisture but are not a source of hydration.
Instructed caregiver when should I call healthcare provider? Contact your healthcare provider or physician immediately:. If you have an irregular heart rate, if you feel increased pain or discomfort, note: It is normal to feel some pain and discomfort for about a week after the tracheostomy procedure.
Instructed patient sterile technique includes: Hand washing, Wearing sterile gloves. Using a new trach tube, inner cannula, and trach tie. Using sterile water (new bottle or bag every 24 hours). Discarding suction catheters after each use.