气切术后家庭护理手册英文版.doc

TRACHEOSTOMY HOME CARE INTRODUCTION Your doctor has decided that you will be sent home with your tracheostomy tube in place (Figure V.D.2.1). You will be instructed and shown how to do your cares. You will also practice these cares. A family member or friend should also learn your cares and practice helping you so that, if needed, someone can assist you at home. This booklet reviews what you will be taught and should be kept as a resource for you and your family or friend.  THE TRACHEOSTOMY TUBE Most tracheostomy tubes have 3 parts (Figure V.D.2.2). The parts may not be used with another tube. The obturator is used to insert the outer cannula into the trachea. The obturator is removed after inserting the tube and should be kept handy for use should the tube come out. The outer cannula maintains the neck opening. The inner cannula is inserted into the outer cannula and locked into place and should only be removed for cleaning. HAND WASHING/CLEANING SUPPLIES Because your hands may spread germs, you must wash your hands before and after all cares. Clean supplies must be used. HUMIDITY Extra humidity is required because the nose and mouth, which filter, warm, and moisten the air you breathe, are bypassed. The amount of moisture needed will vary. Use an ultrasonic nebulizer, a room-size or cool-mist humidifier in your home. Drinking plenty of fluids also helps to keep your airway moist. Increased humidity will be needed during the winter months when your home becomes dry. More moisture is needed whenever secretions become thick, dry, or form plugs. Pink or blood-tinged secretions may also indicate a lack of moisture. Putting (instilling) saline solution (a salt solution) into the trachea adds moisture and causes a cough to clear secretions from your airway. MAKING SALINE SOLUTION Saline solution is a salt solution that can be made by boiling water for 5 minutes, then adding 1 1/2 level teaspoons of noniodized salt per quart of water. Cool to room temperature prior