Imagine a family gathering alongside a loved one in the hospital, hearing medical professionals explain that a breathing tube may be needed for the individual to breathe. The word tracheostomy can be scary while questions can flood a person’s mind. Why do they need it? Will they be able to speak? How will my family and I be able to care for them? Can they return home?
These are all valid concerns for patients going through a medical condition for the first time.
Understanding why someone may need a tracheostomy tube can help patients and their families have a better understanding of what is happening.While a tracheostomy can be disruptive, proper medical treatment, education, and at-home support can help patients and their families overcome the challenge ahead. At Love One Home Healthcare, we believe that compassionate care requires a patient to understand their condition. In this guide,Introduction or conclusion we will go over the main reasons why patients receive a tracheostomy, how the procedure works, the rehabilitation process, and how a patient will be able to reintegrate back into their home life.
What Is a Tracheostomy Tube
A Tracheostomy is a medical procedure where a hole is cut through the front part of the neck to access the trachea (windpipe). The tracheostomy tube is inserted through the hole in order to open the airway and to facilitate breathing if medically needed.
Generally, air passes through the mouth or nose, travels down the throat, and enters the lungs. A tracheostomy provides an alternate path of entry for air to reach the windpipe.
Doctors can use a tracheostomy for a short or long-term basis, depending on the needs of the patient.
How Does a Tracheostomy Work?
The procedure involves the creation of an opening in the front of the neck to access the trachea. Depending on the patient’s medical condition and the type of tracheostomy tube, the tube can allow air to pass through the opened part of the neck into the trachea. The tube can also allow healthcare professionals to suction the airway of secretions.
There are various reasons why a healthcare professional may recommend a tracheostomy. How Love One Home Healthcare Supports Patients and Families The most common reasons include:
Why Would a Person Need a Tracheostomy Tube?
A person might need a tracheostomy tube if their airways or breathing needs medical assistance that cannot be provided through the mouth or nose. The reason why a patient needs it will dictate the type of procedure and if it will be used for long or short-term. There are several reasons why patients may need it.
There are seven common reasons why a doctor would recommend a tracheostomy:
An obstructed or narrowed airway
Prolonged need for a ventilator
Inability to clear secretions from the airways
Neurological conditions that impact breathing
Serious injuries to the face, airway, or neck
Certain surgeries
Prolonged need for respiratory support due to medical conditions
Scars or other medical conditions that impact the airway
When the patient’s airway becomes obstructed or constricted, a tracheostomy can give the patient an alternate way of breathing. Depending on the severity and the medical cause of the obstruction, the tracheostomy may be a long- or short-term solution.
For instance, a patient may receive a tracheostomy in order to receive treatment for a severe condition that is causing the narrowing of the airway. The healthcare team will assess if a tracheostomy is the right option for the patient and if it will be short- or long-term.
Prolonged Need for a Ventilator
Some patients need a ventilator to help them breathe. At first, a doctor may use an endotracheal tube (a breathing tube that goes into the windpipe through the mouth) to help the patient breathe. However, if the patient requires prolonged use of a ventilator, the doctor may recommend a tracheostomy.
The reasons why a patient may need to use a ventilator for an extended period of time can vary. Some of the most common reasons include:
Neurological conditions that impact breathing
A tracheostomy can help the healthcare team wean certain patients off of a ventilator or provide a long-term option for patients who require breathing support for a very long time. It should be noted that a tracheostomy cannot eliminate the risks of a ventilator.
The timing of the procedure will be determined by the doctor. The doctor will consider the patient’s condition, the patient’s progress, as well as if the patient will require continued use of a ventilator.
Inability to Clear Secretions From the Airways
The body produces mucus on a regular basis in order to protect the airway. Generally, most people are able to clear the mucus naturally by coughing it out. However, some people are unable to clear their airways and require suctioning in order to remove it.
Following the prescribed breathing care plan
It is important to note that a tracheostomy does not guarantee that a patient will not be able to develop mucus buildup. Patients and their families should continue to monitor the patient for changes to their condition, as well as receive proper training.
Neurological Conditions that Impact Breathing
The brain, nerves, and respiratory muscles play an important role in the body’s ability to breathe. Some neurological conditions can impact the function of the respiratory muscles and the body’s ability to clear secretions. In some cases, patients may have long-term or lifelong conditions. The conditions include:
Serious Injuries to the Face, Airway, or Neck
A serious injury to the face, airway, or neck can cause obstruction to the airways. In the case of an emergency, doctors will prioritize securing the airway and stabilizing the patient.
Depending on the cause of the injury and the severity, the medical team may advise a tracheostomy. The decision will be made taking into account What Does Tracheostomy Care at Home Involve?.
Certain Surgeries
Some surgeries, particularly to the head, neck, or airway, can impair a person’s ability to breathe normally.
A doctor may recommend a tracheostomy if they believe that the patient’s airway will become constricted following the surgery or during a procedure. Additionally, a tracheostomy may be indicated if the patient requires prolonged use of a ventilator following the surgery.
Each patient is different, and not all patients who undergo head or neck surgery will require a tracheostomy. Depending on the patient’s progress following the surgery, the tracheostomy may be removed when the doctor believes that the patient can breathe safely on their own.
Prolonged Need for Respiratory Support Due to Medical Conditions
A number of chronic conditions can require patients to have a tracheostomy in order to receive prolonged respiratory support.
Depending on the patient’s condition and prognosis, the doctor may advise a tracheostomy for long-term respiratory support or to assist with airway secretion clearance.
A tracheostomy can be a stressful experience for both the patient and their family. The patient and their family will need to go through a recovery process that involves learning about the best practices for their care and receiving training. Families can rely on the advice of the healthcare team in order to determine the most suitable method of care and if they would be able to care for the patient at home.
A Temporary Tracheostomy
A temporary tracheostomy refers to a tracheostomy that is only in place for a short period of time. This type of tracheostomy is generally performed when the patient has a medical issue that will require them to have an opening to their trachea, but they are expected to recover and be able to breathe safely without the tube.
The healthcare team will determine if the tracheostomy tube can be removed by observing the patient’s breathing pattern, the patency of the airway, and the patient’s ability to manage secretions.
A Long-Term Tracheostomy
Long-term tracheostomies are for patients who require an open airway for a longer period of time, whether that is months, years, or permanently. Patients who require such procedures need to receive specialized care and management as well as proper care and monitoring from the healthcare team. The patient and their family should receive training, as well as information about the long-term care options, such as if the patient would be able to stay at home.
Families should never remove, cap, or change the patient’s tracheostomy tube without the recommendation and consent of the patient’s healthcare team.
What Is Life Like After a Tracheostomy?
Life following a tracheostomy can be challenging for both the patient and their family. However, every patient will have an individual experience. Most patients and their families find that with proper training, they become more comfortable with the unique care needs and routines of having a tracheostomy.
Speaking and Communication
Depending on the patient’s condition, the type of tube, and whether they have a speaking valve, some patients will be able to speak without limitations while others may not be able to speak clearly.
Some patients may benefit from a speaking valve, but it should be recommended by the healthcare team in order to ensure that the patient is a suitable candidate.
Eating and Swallowing
Depending on the patient’s overall condition and if their airway can protect itself, some patients may be able to eat and drink normally while others may need to be fed through a tube.
A healthcare professional should be consulted in order to assess if the patient is able to swallow and if there are any dietary restrictions that they should follow.
Personal Care and Daily Activities
Patients may need assistance and caregivers to help them with daily activities like bathing and dressing. The patient and their care team should determine how much support they will need, their progress, and what the care plan entails.
Additionally, patients need caregivers who can help them manage their tracheostomy and care needs at home. Patients and caregivers should receive education and proper training in order to understand personal care, the best practices for maintaining the tracheostomy, and how to identify possible complications.
What Does Tracheostomy Care at Home Involve?
For families who are bringing a loved one home, understanding the different aspects of tracheostomy care is a necessary step.
Tracheostomy care at home should be dictated by the individual needs of the patient, as well as the recommendations of their treatment team.
1. Tracheostomy Tube and Site Care
The area around the tube, also known as the stoma, requires proper cleaning and care in accordance with the instructions of the healthcare team. Additionally, caregivers may need to observe the area and report signs of any complications such as draining, redness, or swelling around the stoma.
2. Secretion Management
Some patients will require assistance with secretion management as part of their tracheostomy care. The care plan may include methods of managing the patient’s breathing, as well as their secretion clearance. Suctioning for secretion management may be prescribed. These procedures require proper training and cannot be performed by untrained patients or caregivers. Families should be given instructions by the healthcare team based on the individual needs of the patient, rather than general online instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tracheostomy Tubes
1. Why would a person need a tracheostomy tube?
A person may need a tracheostomy tube when they are unable to breathe properly due to narrowing or obstruction in their airway, when they require prolonged respiratory support, or if they are unable to clear airway secretions. Patients with injuries, surgeries, neurological conditions, or chronic diseases may also require one. The decision will be based on the individual needs of the patient.
2. Can a person live a normal life with a tracheostomy?
Many people are able to lead fulfilling lives with a tracheostomy. However, the extent of an individual’s activities will depend on their medical needs and the care they require. Some patients manage their tracheostomy independently while others require additional respiratory support and assistance.
3. How long does someone need a tracheostomy tube?
Depending on the needs of the patient, a tracheostomy can be short- or long-term. The healthcare team will determine if the tracheostomy tube can be removed depending on the progression of the illness and if the patient is able to breathe safely. Additionally, the tube can be removed if the patient is able to clear their airway and manage secretions on their own.