Reviewed by: Dr. Sushmita, Lead Therapist at HCAH Rehab & Recovery Center
Last Updated: 13th Aug 2025

Overview of Tracheostomy

A tracheostomy is a surgical procedure where a surgeon makes an opening in the neck to insert a breathing tube into the windpipe (trachea). This allows air to enter the lungs and helps patients who have difficulty breathing due to:

  • Chronic lung disease
  • Severe lung or throat infections
  • Stroke or neurological conditions
  • Airway injuries or blockages

While the procedure can be life-saving, proper care and maintenance of the tracheostomy site is essential to prevent infection, keep the airway clear, and promote recovery.

Significance of Nursing Care in Tracheostomy

Nurses play a central role in the day-to-day management of tracheostomy patients. Their responsibilities range from routine medical care to educating families, providing emotional support, and handling emergencies.

Skilled nursing care helps patients:

  • Recover faster
  • Maintain comfort and safety
  • Reduce the risk of complications and infections

Understanding Tracheostomy Tubes

Different types of tracheostomy tubes are used depending on the patient’s needs:

  • Cuffed Tubes: Have an inflatable cuff to seal the airway, prevent air leaks, and protect the lungs from secretions. Common for patients on mechanical ventilation.
  • Cuffless Tubes: Used for patients who can breathe on their own but need an open airway.
  • Fenestrated Tubes: Have small openings (fenestrations) to allow airflow over the vocal cords for speech. Often used during weaning from the tracheostomy.
  • Adjustable Flange Tubes: Custom-fitted for patients with unique anatomical needs, providing comfort and infection prevention.

Each type of tube requires specific handling and care. At HCAH Rehab, our nurses are trained to provide safe, personalised care for every type of tracheostomy tube.

Responsibilities of Nurses in Tracheostomy Care

1. Initial Care and Assessment

  • Check that the tracheostomy tube is correctly positioned and secure.
  • Monitor for bleeding, swelling, infection, or displacement.
  • Assess breathing patterns and oxygen levels to ensure the airway is functioning.

2. Routine Maintenance and Cleaning

  • Daily Cleaning: Using sterile techniques to clean around the stoma to prevent infection.
  • Changing Dressings: Keeping the site dry and clean to reduce irritation.
  • Inspecting the Tube: Looking for cracks, blockages, or signs of wear.

3. Tracheostomy Suctioning

  • Remove mucus and secretions using a sterile suction catheter.
  • Perform suctioning quickly and safely to avoid patient discomfort.

4. Emergency Management

  • Tube Displacement: Quickly repositioning or replacing the tube if it becomes dislodged.
  • Blockage: Clearing any obstructions that may block airflow.
  • Infection: Identifying early signs and starting appropriate interventions.

Patient and Family Education

Teaching Self-Care

Nurses educate patients and their families on:

  • How to clean the tracheostomy site
  • Dressing changes and hygiene practices
  • Performing suctioning at home
  • Recognising signs of complications

They provide written guides, diagrams, and video tutorials to help families remember each step.

Family Involvement

  • Hands-on training under nurse supervision until confident
  • Emergency preparedness training for urgent situations
  • Guidance on emotional support for the patient at home

Psychological and Emotional Support

Living with a tracheostomy can be physically and emotionally challenging. Nurses help by:

  • Listening to concerns and fears
  • Providing counselling or connecting patients to mental health support
  • Encouraging active participation in their care plan

Enhancing Communication

  • Working with speech therapists to restore communication
  • Providing communication aids like writing boards or digital devices
  • Supporting patients with patience and encouragement

Why Expert Nursing Care Makes the Difference

With the right nursing care, tracheostomy patients can:

  • Reduce complications
  • Improve comfort and quality of life
  • Transition smoothly from hospital to home care

At HCAH, our trained tracheostomy nurses follow evidence-based protocols, coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, and focus on both the medical and emotional aspects of care.

FAQs – Tracheostomy Nursing Care:

Q1. How often should a tracheostomy be cleaned?

Daily cleaning is recommended to maintain hygiene and prevent infection.

Q2. Can family members learn tracheostomy care?

Yes. Nurses provide step-by-step training before discharge.

Q3. What signs of infection should I look for?

Redness, swelling, pus, fever, or foul odour from the site.

Q4. Is tracheostomy care covered by home nursing services?

Yes, many home nursing providers offer trained staff for tracheostomy care.

Call to Action

Need professional tracheostomy care for yourself or a loved one? Our nurses ensure safety, comfort, and a faster recovery — both in rehab centres and at home.