The nurse is caring for a client with a tracheostomy who has a new prescription for a fenestrated tracheostomy tube. Which of the following actions should be included in the plan of care?
A)Leave the tracheostomy inner cannula inserted at all times.
B)Place the decannulation cap in the tube before cuff deflation.
C)Assess the ability to swallow before using the fenestrated tube.
D)Inflate the tracheostomy cuff during use of the fenestrated tube.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Because the cuff is deflated when using a fenestrated tube, the client's risk for aspiration should be assessed before changing to a fenestrated tracheostomy tube. The decannulation cap is never inserted before cuff deflation because to do so would obstruct the client's airway. The cuff is deflated and the inner cannula removed to allow air to flow across the client's vocal cords when using a fenestrated tube.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client with a Tracheostomy