Question

You are dispatched to a residence for a 20-year-old male with respiratory distress. When you arrive, you find that the patient has a tracheostomy tube and is ventilator dependent. His mother tells you that he was doing fine, but then suddenly began experiencing breathing difficulty. You should: • A:detach the ventilator, suction the tracheostomy tube, and reassess the patient. • B:remove the ventilator tubing and place an oxygen mask over the tracheostomy tube. • C:remove him from the mechanical ventilator and ventilate him manually. • D:check the settings on the ventilator to ensure that it is functioning properly.

Answer 1

In the case of sudden respiratory distress in a ventilator-dependent patient with a tracheostomy tube, manual ventilation should be initiated to ensure adequate ventilation, followed by further assessment and possible intervention. (Option c)

Step-by-step explanation:

If you arrive to find a 20-year-old male with respiratory distress who has a tracheostomy tube and is ventilator dependent, the first step you should take is C: remove him from the mechanical ventilator and ventilate him manually. This action is undertaken to ensure that he is receiving adequate ventilation, especially if the distress began suddenly, which might indicate a possible issue with the ventilator or the tracheostomy itself. If manual ventilation resolves the problem, then the cause may be with the device or its settings. However, if the problem persists, further assessment and intervention, such as suctioning the tracheostomy tube, may be necessary. It is critical to remain cautious, as any changes to the patient's airway or ventilation equipment should be undertaken by trained medical personnel to avoid complications.