A tracheostomy tube, or trach tube, allows a person to breath without using his or her nose or mouth. Some trach tubes have a cuff on the end that keeps air from reaching the mouth and nose. A cuffless tracheostomy tube does not have a cuff. Since there is no cuff, a person with this kind of trach tube can cough and speak normally.
Two people are needed to change a cuffless trach tube.
SUPPLIES NEEDED
Clean gloves.
A new trach tube and an emergency trach tube. One tube should be the same size as the current tube and the other tube should be smaller.
Twill tape ties or hook-and-loop fastener ties.
Foam with adhesive backing (if twill tape ties are used).
Scissors.
Clamp or tweezers.
Suction equipment. …show more content…
Water-soluble lubricant.
Obturator, if needed.
HOW TO CHANGE A CUFFLESS TUBE
When changing a cuffless trach tube, make sure to follow any specific instructions given by the person's health care provider.
Have all supplies ready and available.
Wash your hands.
Prepare the new trach tube. While you do this, make sure the tube tip does not touch any nonsterile surface. To prepare the new tube:
If you need to use an obturator, put the obturator in the trach tube.
If the trach tube has an inner cannula, remove it and insert the obturator.
Wash your hands, and have your helper wash his or her hands.
Put on clean gloves, and have your helper put on clean gloves.
Suction the trach tube as needed.
Have the person lean back and tip his or her head back a little. This will make the opening in the person's neck easier to see.
Place a rolled-up blanket or towel under the person's shoulders.
Give extra oxygen as needed.
Hold the current trach tube securely, and have your helper cut and remove the ties.
Have your helper place a small amount of water-soluble lubricant on the trach tube