Tracheotomy is a common procedure in intensive care units, and nurses must provide proper care to tracheostomy
patients to prevent complications. One of the most important considerations is effective mobilization
of secretions, and a suction catheter is the most important tool for that purpose. Each bedside
should be equipped with a functional suctioning system, an oxygen source, a manual resuscitation bag,
and a complete tracheostomy kit, which should accompany patients wherever they go in the hospital. Complications
include infection, tracheomalacia, skin breakdown, and tracheoesophageal fistula. Tracheostomy
emergencies include hemorrhage, tube dislodgement and loss of airway, and tube obstruction; such emergencies
are managed more effectively when all necessary supplies are readily available at the bedside. This
article describes how to provide proper care in the intensive care unit, strategies for preventing complications,
and management of tracheostomy emergencies