Question

General care for a patient with a tracheostomy tube includes all of the following, EXCEPT:

A) ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation at all times.
B) removing the tube if the area around it appears to be infected.
C) suctioning the tube as needed to clear a thick mucous plug.
D) maintaining the patient in a position of comfort when possible.

Answer 1

General care for a patient with a tracheostomy tube includes ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation, suctioning the tube as needed, and maintaining patient comfort. However, the tube should not be removed if the area is infected.

Step-by-step explanation:

General care for a patient with a tracheostomy tube includes ensuring adequate oxygenation and ventilation, suctioning the tube as needed to clear a thick mucous plug, and maintaining the patient in a position of comfort when possible. However, one should NOT remove the tube if the area around it appears to be infected. The tracheostomy tube is an artificial airway that helps bypass a blocked or injured part of the respiratory system, and removing it without proper medical assessment can be detrimental to the patient's health.