Final answer:
A licensed practical nurse is equipped to provide tracheostomy care under appropriate supervision, which involves maintaining the tracheostomy tube and monitoring the patient's condition.
Step-by-step explanation:
Yes, a licensed practical nurse (LPN) is trained and qualified to provide tracheostomy care under the supervision of a registered nurse (RN) or physician. The LPN role includes being competent in various clinical tasks such as wound care, administration of medications, and monitoring patient vital signs. Tracheostomy care, specifically, involves cleaning and maintaining the tracheostomy tube and the stoma, ensuring the airway is patent, and monitoring for any complications associated with the tracheotomy or the patient's overall condition. This is especially pertinent during the recovery phase after surgery, where the surgeon, nurse, and anesthesia professional collaborate and review aloud key concerns for the patient's care.