A client has a tracheostomy tube in place.When the nurse suctions the client,food particles are noted.What action by the nurse is best?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Constant pressure from the tracheostomy tube cuff can cause tracheomalacia,leading to dilation of the tracheal passage.This can be manifested by food particles seen in secretions or by noting that larger and larger amounts of pressure are needed to keep the tracheostomy cuff inflated.The nurse should measure the pressures and compare them to previous ones to detect a trend.Elevating the head of the bed,placing the client on NPO status,and requesting a swallow study will not correct this situation.

A Client Has a Tracheostomy Tube in Place