A patient returns from surgery with a tracheostomy tube after a total laryngectomy and radical neck dissection. In caring for the patient during the first 24 hours after surgery, the priority nursing action is to

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most important goals post-tracheotomy are to maintain the airway and ensure adequate oxygenation. Assessment of the airway and breath sounds is the priority action. Maintenance of the tracheostomy ties, cleaning the inner cannula, and checking for bleeding are also appropriate nursing actions but are not of as high a priority.

A Patient Returns from Surgery with a Tracheostomy Tube After