Question

A patient is receiving continuous oxygen by transtracheal catheter with a flow rate of 1 L/min. The patient complains that he is not getting enough air. Which of the following is most appropriate?

1) place the patient on a nasal cannula at 1 L/min
2) place the patient on a nasal cannula at 2 L/min
3) remove the catheter
4) flush the catheter with saline

Answer 1

The most appropriate action when a patient complains about not getting enough air while on a transtracheal catheter is to flush the catheter with saline. This procedure clears any obstructions and helps maintain oxygen flow. Other interventions may be necessary if flushing does not resolve the issue. If a patient is receiving continuous oxygen by transtracheal catheter at a flow rate of 1 L/min and complains about not getting enough air, the most appropriate action is to flush the catheter with saline (1).

Step-by-step explanation:

If a patient is receiving continuous oxygen by transtracheal catheter at a flow rate of 1 L/min and complains about not getting enough air, the most appropriate action is to flush the catheter with saline. This will clear any potential obstructions that are hindering the oxygen flow. Flushing the catheter is a standard procedure to ensure patency and functionality of the catheter. If flushing does not resolve the issue, then escalating interventions, such as adjusting the delivery method or the flow rate, may be required under medical supervision.

Furthermore, in understanding the importance of maintaining adequate oxygen delivery, it is helpful to consider the average flow rate of air through the trachea as discussed in the Take-Home Experiment: Inhalation. An adult typically inhales about 1 L of air per breath during normal activity. However, a patient's oxygen requirements may differ greatly from their natural breathing capacity, especially if they have a compromised respiratory system.