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Course point: Tracheostomy Care
Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified
What is the main reason for using sterile technique during tracheostomy care?✔✔ To prevent infection at the stoma and lower airway
What should the nurse assess before starting tracheostomy suctioning?✔✔ Breath sounds and oxygen saturation
How often should the nurse assess the stoma site of a patient with a tracheostomy?✔✔ At least once per shift or per facility policy
What should be done immediately after removing a disposable inner cannula?✔✔ Replace it with a new sterile inner cannula
What is the priority nursing action if the patient with a tracheostomy becomes anxious and has decreased breath sounds?✔✔ Assess for airway obstruction and prepare to suction 1 / 3
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Why is humidified oxygen used for patients with tracheostomies?✔✔ It prevents mucous membranes from drying out
What is the safest method to secure a tracheostomy tube?✔✔ Use clean or sterile trach ties and ensure one-finger space under the tie
What should a nurse do if a tracheostomy dressing is saturated with secretions?✔✔ Replace it with a clean, dry sterile dressing
What is the best method to evaluate the effectiveness of tracheostomy suctioning?✔✔ Improved breath sounds and increased oxygen saturation
What is the first action if the tracheostomy tube becomes dislodged during care?✔✔ Call for help and attempt reinsertion using a sterile obturator
What is a key reason for performing trach care at regular intervals?✔✔ To reduce the risk of infection and airway obstruction 2 / 3
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What is the purpose of the cuff on a tracheostomy tube?✔✔ To seal the airway and prevent aspiration
How does a nurse verify that the suction catheter is in the correct position before applying suction?✔✔ Insert the catheter until resistance is met or the patient coughs, then withdraw slightly
Why is it important not to instill saline into the tracheostomy tube before suctioning?✔✔ It increases the risk of hypoxia and lower airway contamination
What finding indicates that the trach cuff may be overinflated?✔✔ Patient reports discomfort and there is damage to the tracheal wall
What should a nurse do if the patient starts coughing while changing the ties?✔✔ Stop the procedure and ensure the trach tube is still secure
What is the proper action if a nurse drops the inner cannula on a non-sterile surface?
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