Question

A nurse is caring for a client who has tracheostomy tube and is undergoing mechanical ventilation. The nurse can help prevent tracheal dilation, a complication of tracheostomy tube placement, by:
1. Suctioning the tracheostomy tube frequently
2. Using a cuffed tracheostomy tube
3. Using the minimal-leak technique and keeping Cuff pressure < 25 cm H20
4. Keeping the tracheostomy tube plugged

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 3 : Using the minimal-leak technique and keeping Cuff pressure < 25 cm H20

CONCEPT:

• A tracheostomy is an opening created at the front of the neck so a tube can be inserted into the windpipe (trachea) to help you breathe.
• If necessary, the tube can be connected to an oxygen supply and a breathing machine called a ventilator. 
• It will keep your airway open so you can receive oxygen, humidity, and/or breathing treatments. 

 

EXPLANATION:  

• To properly and safely inflate tracheostomy tube cuff by inflating with the optimal prescribed amount of air or sterile water to create an optimal “minimal leak” to allow a minimum amount of air to flow between the tracheostomy tube cuff and the tracheal wall at the very end of inspiration.
• This technique is commonly called Minimal Leak Technique and is used to prevent damage to the tracheal wall by preventing over inflation of the tracheostomy tube cuff.