A tracheostomy is a medical procedure that involves creating an opening in the neck and into the trachea, or windpipe, in order to help with breathing. This procedure is often used in cases where the airway is obstructed or when there is a need to remove secretions from the lungs. To perform a tracheostomy, a tracheostomy care kit is needed, which includes a variety of sterile, single-use tools and equipment.
The tracheostomy care kit is divided into three sections: cleaning, soaking, and rinsing. Some of the essential equipment in the kit includes:
- Tracheostomy tube: This is a curved tube that is inserted into the opening in the neck, or stoma, and is used to assist with breathing in cases of chronic lung infections. It consists of three parts: an outer cannula, an inner cannula, and an obstructer. The outer cannula keeps the tracheostomy open, while the inner cannula is used for cleaning and can be removed. The obstructer helps guide the tracheostomy tube into place. Different tracheostomy tubes are available with different features and should be chosen based on the patient’s needs. The kit may also include spare tracheostomy tubes of different sizes and half-size tracheostomy tubes with tapes.
- Suction catheter: This is a medical device used to remove secretions, such as saliva and mucus, from the upper airway. It is attached to an aspirator or collection canister and the free end of the tube is inserted into the tracheostomy tube to collect secretions and help clear the airway. Suction catheters are used in cases where the breathing rate is increased, when there is difficulty breathing, or when the patient hears a mucus rattling sound. Suctioning is important to prevent secretions from blocking the airway and is necessary for proper breathing. Suction catheters are available in different sizes and diameters.
- Normal saline nebule: This is a small tube containing normal saline, which is a solution of salt and water. During a tracheostomy, the procedure can increase the viscosity of sputum and cause mucus to form or damage cilia. Normal saline is nebulized, or turned into a fine mist, and given to the patient to help reduce these issues and maintain osmolarity in the airway. It also helps to loosen thick secretions and provides humidification for easier breathing. Keeping the inside of the lungs and trachea moist helps to keep mucus thin, which is easier to cough up.
Other equipment in the tracheostomy care kit may include round-ended scissors, a manual suction setup, water-soluble lubricant, gauze for wound care, and precut clean tracheostomy gauze (dressing). It is important to use gloves and a face mask when using the tracheostomy care kit to prevent exposure.
