The removable inner cannula commonly incorporated into modern tracheostomy tubes serves which of the following purposes?
1) Aid in routine tube cleaning and tracheostomy care
2) Prevent the tube from slipping into the trachea
3) Provide a patent airway should it become obstructed
A)1 and 3 only
B)2 and 3 only
C)3 only
D)1, 2, and 3

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The removable inner cannula serves two main purposes - it aids in routine cleaning and care of the tracheostomy tube, and it allows for an obstructed airway to be quickly cleared by removing the inner cannula and replacing it with a new one. It does not prevent the tube from slipping into the trachea - this is typically prevented by the flange at the base of the tracheostomy tube.

The Removable Inner Cannula Commonly Incorporated into Modern Tracheostomy Tubes