Tracheostomy: How to Avoid Mucus Build-up
Tracheostomy: How to Avoid Mucus Build-upPg 1TranscriptA Tracheostomy can be used for just a short time or for a lifetime, but it must be kept clean,infection free and in good working order to prevent complications. Naturally, your body will producemore mucus when using a trach.When you breathe through your nose and mouth your body cleans, filters and moisturizes the airgoing into your lungs. But when you are breathing through a trach, you bypass the mouth andnose. The air getting to your lungs can be dirty and dry, causing a build-up of mucus in your lungs.This mucus can block the trach tube and lead to a chest infection or airway blockage.There are several steps you can take to avoid a build-up of mucus. If your doctor or speechpathologist says you can have liquids by mouth, drinking plenty of fluids can help.If you are receiving your nutrition and water through a feeding tube, ask your healthcare providerhow much water you should have.While in the hospital and at home, you will use a humidified trach collar to provide moisture to yourairway.Increase the humidity in your home if possible but don’t set it higher than 55%, or mold may grow.Keep your bedroom cool while you sleep.Breathing moist air after a shower can improve humidity.If you still feel like you aren’t getting enough moisture into your lungs, talk to your healthcareprovider. He or she may be able to recommend other products that can provide humidity to yourairway.When you do have a build-up of mucus, you can try to get rid of it first with deep breathing or bycoughing. If you still have mucus, suctioning your trach will remove your secretions best. A cleantrach will help you to breathe more easily and prevent infection.The amount of times that you need to suction your trach will decrease as your airway heals andyou adjust to having a trach tube. After you’re home you will find there are times that youcommonly need to suction your trach.You may need to suction your tube: when you feel or hear mucus rattling in the airway, beforecleaning your inner cannula, when you first wake up in the morning, before you eat, before you gooutside, and before you go to sleep at night.Talk to your healthcare provider about when and how often you should suction your trach.To suction your trach tube, you will use a suction machine. A small, flexible tube is connected tothe suction machine which pulls the mucus out of your trach tube.Remember to always wash your hands thoroughly before and after you suction your tube.This program is for informational purposes only; for all health related issues please contact your healthcareprovider. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of this videofor medical decision making. qc_10060_98 ©Milner-Fenwick, Inc.Tracheostomy: How to Avoid Mucus Build-upPg 2And wear gloves for added infection control.When you are suctioning your trach, check to make sure the mucus is thin and clear. If it looksyellow, brown, green, or there is more than usual, contact your healthcare provider.All parts of the suction machine, including the collection bottle and tubing should be kept clean anddisinfected on a regular basis.You can have a healthy, active life while living with a tracheostomy. When you properly care foryour trach, it will remain clear of excess secretions and free of infection, helping you live the lifeyou want to live.This program is for informational purposes only; for all health related issues please contact your healthcareprovider. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or suitability of this videofor medical decision making. qc_10060_98 ©Milner-Fenwick, Inc.
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