A physician asks you to assess the upper airway function of a patient with a fenestrated tracheostomy tube. How should this be accomplished?
A) Replace the inner cannula, plug the proximal opening, and inflate the cuff.
B) Remove the inner cannula, plug the proximal opening, and deflate the cuff.
C) Remove the inner cannula, plug the proximal opening, and inflate the cuff.
D) Replace the inner cannula, plug the proximal opening, and deflate the cuff.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Removal of the inner cannula opens the fenestration allowing air to pass into the upper airway. Capping or placing a peaking valve on the proximal opening of the tube's outer cannula, accompanied by deflation of the cuff, allows for assessment of upper airway function.

A Physician Asks You to Assess the Upper Airway Function