The first step in caring for a tracheostomy patient in respiratory distress is to remove and inspect the inner cannula.
Skin Breakdown
Downward traction of the tracheostomy tube can occur with too much weight pulling down on it, as discussed previously. Traction against the tube can be directed out and downward by pulling against the tube or inward, with the neck flange digging into the neck. These traction forces must be prevented and the tube kept in a neutral position. In addition to tracheomalacia, tube dislodgement, and inadvertent decannulation, traction can also be a factor in skin breakdown. Inward traction can contribute to skin erosion under the neck flange; outward traction can contribute to erosion, dislodgement, decannulation, and enlargement of the stoma from the inside.
Skin integrity can be compromised at any time in a patient with a tracheostomy. Regular skin inspection is important to prevent complications. Keeping the site as dry as possible with drain sponges or skin barrier dressings such as those made from carboxymethylcellulose (Aquacel), polyurethane foam (Lyofoam), or silicone foam (Mepilex) can prevent skin breakdown and prevent infection. Skin care may be difficult while the sutures remain in place until the stoma matures. The use of cotton-tip applicators can help in reaching the tight places. When a cotton-tip applicator is soaked with hydrogen peroxide and sterile physiological saline, dried blood and secretions can be more easily removed, especially from tight spaces.
Maintaining the tracheostomy tube in a continuous neutral position can ensure skin integrity while a patient is receiving oxygen via mechanical ventilation or some other delivery device. A continuous neutral position can be achieved by making sure the oxygen delivery devices are not putting any weight on or pulling on or twisting the tracheostomy tube or by placing a bolster (rolled towel) under the ventilator circuit. Areas of skin breakdown should be staged and treated as necessary. Protective dressings can be used as needed to provide a cushion, collect secretions, and encourage timely healing. Several dressing products are available that guard against skin breakdown from flange pressure and are extraabsorbent to soak up excessive tracheal secretions. However, packaged precut tracheostomy gauze is often sufficient to protect the peristomal skin. The gauze should not cover the opening of the tracheostomy tube.21Table 6 lists types of stomal dressings and indications for their use.