Standards of health care for patients with a tracheostomy

Tracheotomy is a surgical method that involves opening the trachea in the neck area to ensure breathing. This procedure is performed in hospital conditions, with sterile instruments under certain conditions with educated medical personnel. Tracheotomy means the way in which the trachea is accessed, as well as the way in which it is opened (at the level of 2-3 tracheal rings). Indications for performing a tracheotomy are: respiratory obstruction, protection of tracheobronchial stability, treatment of diseases that can lead to respiratory insufficiency. The nurse must ensure that health care is provided according to the protocols, policies and guidelines of the organization for which he/she works. The frequency of dressing the stoma and cannula is related to the amount of secretions, bleeding and the possible existence of symptoms of infection. During the cleaning of the stoma, the bandage is removed, the wound is cleaned with NaCl solution. During toileting of the stoma, special attention should be paid to the cuff of the cannula, which should be filled with 12ml of air. Aspiration of the cannula is carried out according to the principles of asepsis, in order to prevent the occurrence of lung infection or systemic infection. Before the procedure, the patient should be prepared: the procedure should be explained to him, because the procedure is uncomfortable and causes a feeling of suffocation. Education of patients with a tracheostomy is an active process with the main goal of encouraging and creating changes in the attitudes and behaviors of patients. In order to implement healthcare for patients with a tracheostomy, a detailed, systematized and specialized approach of all members of the healthcare team is required.