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NHSGGC - Care of Tracheostomy: Inner Tube Change
Introduction
The care and maintenance of a tracheostomy are crucial to ensure patient safety and wellbeing. One key aspect of this care is the regular changing of the inner tube. The NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) offers comprehensive guidelines to ensure proper procedures are followed to minimise risk and promote comfort for patients.
Importance of Changing the Inner Tube
Changing the inner tube of a tracheostomy is important to prevent blockages caused by mucus and other secretions. Regular changes reduce the risk of infection, improve breathing, and ensure the tracheostomy functions effectively. Within the UK, tracheostomy care is a priority for patient safety and is guided by established NHS protocols.
Preparation for Inner Tube Change
Before starting, ensure all necessary equipment is ready: a new inner tube, gloves, sterile water or saline, suction apparatus, and any specific equipment detailed by NHSGGC guidelines. Wash hands thoroughly and put on gloves to maintain hygiene.
Steps to Changing the Inner Tube
- Prepare the patient, ensuring they are comfortable and understand the procedure.
- Unlock and gently remove the existing inner tube while holding the outer tube securely in place.
- Inspect the removed tube for secretions or damage. Clean it properly if it's intended for reuse or dispose of it accordingly if it is for single use.
- Insert the new, clean inner tube gently, ensuring it clicks or secures into place.
- Check for proper placement and ensure the patient is comfortable and can breathe without difficulty.
Post-Procedure Care
After changing the inner tube, monitor the patient for any signs of distress or complications such as bleeding, unusual secretions, or difficulty breathing. Document the procedure in the patient's records, noting any observations or actions taken. Ensuring a clean and secure tracheostomy site at all times is paramount.
Conclusion
Following NHSGGC’s guidelines for tracheostomy inner tube changes helps ensure patient safety and effective care. By adhering to the recommended procedures and maintaining high standards of hygiene and monitoring, healthcare providers can significantly improve patient outcomes.
NHSGGC - Care of Tracheostomy: Inner Tube Change
Introduction
A tracheostomy helps people breathe. It needs to be looked after very well to keep people safe. Part of this care is changing the inner tube often. This is important and helps keep patients feeling good.
Importance of Changing the Inner Tube
We need to change the inner tube of a tracheostomy to stop it from getting blocked with mucus. It helps stop infections and makes breathing better. In the UK, looking after a tracheostomy is very important for keeping people safe.
Preparation for Inner Tube Change
Make sure you have everything you need: a new tube, gloves, clean water or saline, and a suction device. Wash your hands well and wear gloves to keep everything clean.
Steps to Changing the Inner Tube
- Make sure the person is comfortable and knows what you are going to do.
- Take out the old inner tube slowly, but hold the outer tube so it stays in place.
- Look at the old tube to see if it has mucus or if it is damaged. Clean it if you need to use it again, or throw it away if it is not reusable.
- Gently put in the new clean tube. Make sure it clicks into place.
- Check that the person is comfortable and can breathe well.
Post-Procedure Care
After changing the tube, watch the person to make sure they are okay. Look out for bleeding, unusual mucus, or trouble breathing. Write down what you did and anything you noticed. Keeping the tracheostomy clean and safe is very important.
Conclusion
Following these steps keeps people safe. It helps healthcare workers take good care of people with a tracheostomy. Keeping everything clean and checking on the patient helps them feel better.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an inner tube in a tracheostomy?
An inner tube is a removable, smaller tube that fits inside the main outer tube of a tracheostomy, ensuring the airway stays clear and prevents mucus buildup.
Why is it important to change the inner tube regularly?
Changing the inner tube regularly helps prevent infections, ensures the tube remains clear of mucus, and maintains the effectiveness of the tracheostomy.
How often should the inner tube be changed?
Inner tubes should typically be changed at least once daily, or more frequently if required, based on the patient's condition and medical advice.
What should I do before changing the inner tube?
Before changing the inner tube, ensure you wash your hands thoroughly, prepare the new inner tube and any other needed equipment, and ensure the patient is in a comfortable position.
Can I change the inner tube by myself?
Yes, with proper training and guidance from healthcare professionals, you can safely change the inner tube yourself. Always follow the specific instructions provided.
How do I remove the inner tube?
To remove the inner tube, carefully unlock the securing mechanism, usually by rotating or unlocking a connector, and gently pull it out while supporting the outer tube.
How do I insert a new inner tube?
Insert the new inner tube by gently guiding it into the outer tube, ensuring it is properly aligned and securely fastened according to the manufacturer's instructions.
What should I do if the new inner tube doesn't fit correctly?
If the new inner tube doesn't fit correctly, check for any blockages or misalignments. If problems persist, refer to the manufacturer's instructions or contact a healthcare professional.
What precautions should I take during the inner tube change?
Ensure a clean environment, wash hands thoroughly, avoid contamination, and follow the exact steps provided in the instruction manual or by healthcare providers.
How can I clean the inner tube?
If the inner tube is designed to be reusable, clean it with sterile water or saline, following specific cleaning instructions provided by the manufacturer or healthcare provider.
What are the signs of an infection related to the tracheostomy?
Signs of infection include redness, swelling, increased discharge, foul odour, fever, or pain around the tracheostomy site. Contact healthcare professionals if any of these symptoms occur.
What should I do if the patient has difficulty breathing after inner tube change?
If the patient has difficulty breathing, ensure the inner tube is properly fitted and clear of obstructions. If breathing issues persist, seek immediate medical assistance.
Can I use any type of inner tube with the tracheostomy?
No, you should use only the specific type and size of inner tube recommended by the healthcare provider or the tracheostomy tube manufacturer.
How do I know if the inner tube needs to be changed more frequently?
Signs that the inner tube needs more frequent changes include visible mucus buildup, difficulty breathing, and decreased effectiveness of the airway.
What support is available if I have concerns about changing the inner tube?
Support is available from healthcare providers, such as NHS services, specialized nurses, and instructional resources provided by manufacturers or healthcare institutions.
What is an inner tube in a tracheostomy?
A tracheostomy is a small hole made in the neck to help someone breathe.
The inner tube is a small tube that goes inside the tracheostomy. It helps keep the airway open and clear.
Ways to understand better:
- Look at pictures of a tracheostomy to see how an inner tube works.
- Ask a nurse or doctor to show you a real inner tube.
Supportive tools:
- Use simple drawings and models to learn more.
- Watch a video that shows how a tracheostomy helps people breathe.
An inner tube is a small, extra tube that goes inside the main tube of a tracheostomy. It helps keep the airway open and stops mucus from getting blocked.
Why should we change the inner tube often?
Changing the inner tube often helps stop infections. It keeps the tube clean from mucus and makes sure the tracheostomy works well.
How often should you change the inside tube of a tire?
Here is some helpful advice:
- Check the tube every few months.
- If it gets a hole, change it.
- If the tire feels soft, check the tube.
Using pictures or videos can help you learn more.
You should change inner tubes at least once every day. If needed, change them more often. Listen to the doctor's advice to know when to change them.
What should I do before changing the inside tube?
Here are some simple steps to help you get ready:
- Find a safe place to work.
- Get the right tools. You might need a tire lever or a pump.
- Take off the wheel. You can ask someone to help you if needed.
- Let the air out of the tire.
You can also use videos or ask a friend to show you how.
Before you change the inner tube, follow these steps:
- First, wash your hands really well.
- Next, get the new inner tube ready.
- Make sure you have all the things you need.
- Help the person get comfortable.
Can I change the inner tube by myself?
Yes, you can change the inner tube by yourself! Here is how to do it:
- Make sure you have the right tools. You will need a tire lever and a pump.
- Take the wheel off the bike.
- Use the tire lever to take the tire off the wheel.
- Take out the old inner tube.
- Put the new inner tube inside the tire.
- Put the tire back on the wheel.
- Use the pump to fill the new tube with air.
- Put the wheel back on the bike.
If you need help, ask a grown-up or watch a video online. It's okay to ask for help!
Yes, you can change the inner tube by yourself if you get help and training from doctors or nurses. Always follow the exact steps they give you.
How can I take out the inner tube?
Here is how you can do it step by step:
- First, let all the air out of the tire.
- Use a tire lever to gently lift the tire off the wheel.
- Find the inner tube inside the tire.
- Carefully pull out the inner tube.
Tools that can help:
- Tire levers: These help you get the tire off the wheel.
- Bicycle pump: You may need this later to pump air back into the tire.
To take out the inner tube, follow these steps:
1. Carefully unlock the part that holds it in place. You might need to turn or open a connector.
2. Gently pull the inner tube out. Make sure you hold the outer tube while doing this so it stays in place.
If you need help, you can use online videos, follow step-by-step guides, or ask someone to show you how.
How do I put in a new inner tube?
Put the new inner tube into the outer tube. Do it gently. Make sure it fits right and is safely attached. Follow the instructions from the maker.
What to do if the new bike tube doesn't fit?
If the new tube for your bike doesn't fit right, don't worry! Here are some things you can try: 1. **Check the Size**: Make sure you have the right size tube for your bike tire. Look at the numbers on your tire and the tube package. 2. **Ask for Help**: If you're not sure, ask someone who knows about bikes. They can help you find the right tube. 3. **Use Tools**: Tools like tire levers can help you put the tube in properly. 4. **Visit a Bike Shop**: If you still have problems, visiting a bike shop can be a good idea. The people there can help fix the problem. Remember, it's okay to ask for help!If the new inner tube doesn't fit right, look for anything stuck or in the wrong place. If it still doesn't work, read the instructions from the maker or talk to a doctor.
What should I do to stay safe when changing the inner tube?
Keep things clean. Wash your hands really well. Don't let anything dirty touch the clean things. Follow the steps you are given by doctors or in the instruction book.
How can I clean the tube inside?
Here's how to clean the tube inside:
- Take the tube out carefully.
- Use warm water and soap to wash it.
- Rinse the tube with clean water.
- Let it dry before using it again.
- Ask an adult to help if needed.
Try using a brush with a long handle to reach inside the tube. A bottle brush works well!
If you can use the inner tube again, clean it with clean water or special salt water. Follow the cleaning steps given by the maker or doctor.
What are the signs of an infection from a tracheostomy?
A tracheostomy is a hole in the throat to help with breathing. Sometimes, it can get infected. Look out for these signs:
- Red or sore skin around the hole.
- Pain or swelling near the hole.
- A bad smell coming from the hole.
- Yellow or green goo (pus) coming out.
- Fever or feeling very hot.
If you see these signs, tell a doctor or nurse. They can help and make sure everything is okay.
You can use picture charts to help understand these signs. Talking to a helper or carer can also be good.
Look out for signs of infection. These can be:
- Redness
- Swelling
- More liquid coming out
- Bad smell
- Fever
- Pain near the tracheostomy
If you see any of these signs, talk to a doctor or nurse.
What to do if someone can't breathe well after changing the tube?
If the person has trouble breathing, make sure the tube inside is in the right place and not blocked. If they still can't breathe well, get help from a doctor right away.
Can I use any kind of tube with a tracheostomy?
A tracheostomy is a hole in the neck that helps a person breathe. It is important to use the right tube.
Talk to a doctor or nurse about which tube is good to use.
Use pictures or videos if that helps you understand better.
No, you should only use the exact type and size of inner tube that the doctor or tracheostomy tube maker says to use.
How can I tell if I need to change the inner tube more often?
If the tube inside needs to be changed more often, you might notice some signs:
- There's a lot of sticky stuff (mucus) on it.
- It's hard to breathe.
- The tube doesn't work as well to help you breathe.
You can ask someone to help check these things. If it's hard to understand, you can use pictures or videos. These help show what to look for. You can also talk to a doctor or nurse. They can explain and show what to do.
Who can help me if I am worried about changing the inner tube?
If you are worried about changing an inner tube, you can ask for help. Here are some things you can try:
- Ask a friend or family member who knows how to change an inner tube to help you.
- Watch a simple video online that shows how to change an inner tube step by step.
- Go to a bike shop and ask them to show you how to do it.
- Look for a picture guide that shows each step clearly.
- Practice with someone who can help you if you get stuck.
Remember, it is okay to ask for help if you need it.
You can get help from doctors and nurses. The NHS can help too. There are special nurses who know a lot about health. You can also find helpful information from hospitals and companies that make health products.
What is an inner tube in a tracheostomy?
A tracheostomy is a small hole made in the neck to help someone breathe.
The inner tube is a small tube that goes inside the tracheostomy. It helps keep the airway open and clear.
Ways to understand better:
- Look at pictures of a tracheostomy to see how an inner tube works.
- Ask a nurse or doctor to show you a real inner tube.
Supportive tools:
- Use simple drawings and models to learn more.
- Watch a video that shows how a tracheostomy helps people breathe.
An inner tube is a small, extra tube that goes inside the main tube of a tracheostomy. It helps keep the airway open and stops mucus from getting blocked.
Why should we change the inner tube often?
Changing the inner tube often helps stop infections. It keeps the tube clean from mucus and makes sure the tracheostomy works well.
How often should you change the inside tube of a tire?
Here is some helpful advice:
- Check the tube every few months.
- If it gets a hole, change it.
- If the tire feels soft, check the tube.
Using pictures or videos can help you learn more.
You should change inner tubes at least once every day. If needed, change them more often. Listen to the doctor's advice to know when to change them.
What should I do before changing the inside tube?
Here are some simple steps to help you get ready:
- Find a safe place to work.
- Get the right tools. You might need a tire lever or a pump.
- Take off the wheel. You can ask someone to help you if needed.
- Let the air out of the tire.
You can also use videos or ask a friend to show you how.
Before you change the inner tube, follow these steps:
- First, wash your hands really well.
- Next, get the new inner tube ready.
- Make sure you have all the things you need.
- Help the person get comfortable.
Can I change the inner tube by myself?
Yes, you can change the inner tube by yourself! Here is how to do it:
- Make sure you have the right tools. You will need a tire lever and a pump.
- Take the wheel off the bike.
- Use the tire lever to take the tire off the wheel.
- Take out the old inner tube.
- Put the new inner tube inside the tire.
- Put the tire back on the wheel.
- Use the pump to fill the new tube with air.
- Put the wheel back on the bike.
If you need help, ask a grown-up or watch a video online. It's okay to ask for help!
Yes, you can change the inner tube by yourself if you get help and training from doctors or nurses. Always follow the exact steps they give you.
How can I take out the inner tube?
Here is how you can do it step by step:
- First, let all the air out of the tire.
- Use a tire lever to gently lift the tire off the wheel.
- Find the inner tube inside the tire.
- Carefully pull out the inner tube.
Tools that can help:
- Tire levers: These help you get the tire off the wheel.
- Bicycle pump: You may need this later to pump air back into the tire.
To take out the inner tube, follow these steps:
1. Carefully unlock the part that holds it in place. You might need to turn or open a connector.
2. Gently pull the inner tube out. Make sure you hold the outer tube while doing this so it stays in place.
If you need help, you can use online videos, follow step-by-step guides, or ask someone to show you how.
How do I put in a new inner tube?
Put the new inner tube into the outer tube. Do it gently. Make sure it fits right and is safely attached. Follow the instructions from the maker.
What to do if the new bike tube doesn't fit?
If the new tube for your bike doesn't fit right, don't worry! Here are some things you can try: 1. **Check the Size**: Make sure you have the right size tube for your bike tire. Look at the numbers on your tire and the tube package. 2. **Ask for Help**: If you're not sure, ask someone who knows about bikes. They can help you find the right tube. 3. **Use Tools**: Tools like tire levers can help you put the tube in properly. 4. **Visit a Bike Shop**: If you still have problems, visiting a bike shop can be a good idea. The people there can help fix the problem. Remember, it's okay to ask for help!If the new inner tube doesn't fit right, look for anything stuck or in the wrong place. If it still doesn't work, read the instructions from the maker or talk to a doctor.
What should I do to stay safe when changing the inner tube?
Keep things clean. Wash your hands really well. Don't let anything dirty touch the clean things. Follow the steps you are given by doctors or in the instruction book.
How can I clean the tube inside?
Here's how to clean the tube inside:
- Take the tube out carefully.
- Use warm water and soap to wash it.
- Rinse the tube with clean water.
- Let it dry before using it again.
- Ask an adult to help if needed.
Try using a brush with a long handle to reach inside the tube. A bottle brush works well!
If you can use the inner tube again, clean it with clean water or special salt water. Follow the cleaning steps given by the maker or doctor.
What are the signs of an infection from a tracheostomy?
A tracheostomy is a hole in the throat to help with breathing. Sometimes, it can get infected. Look out for these signs:
- Red or sore skin around the hole.
- Pain or swelling near the hole.
- A bad smell coming from the hole.
- Yellow or green goo (pus) coming out.
- Fever or feeling very hot.
If you see these signs, tell a doctor or nurse. They can help and make sure everything is okay.
You can use picture charts to help understand these signs. Talking to a helper or carer can also be good.
Look out for signs of infection. These can be:
- Redness
- Swelling
- More liquid coming out
- Bad smell
- Fever
- Pain near the tracheostomy
If you see any of these signs, talk to a doctor or nurse.
What to do if someone can't breathe well after changing the tube?
If the person has trouble breathing, make sure the tube inside is in the right place and not blocked. If they still can't breathe well, get help from a doctor right away.
Can I use any kind of tube with a tracheostomy?
A tracheostomy is a hole in the neck that helps a person breathe. It is important to use the right tube.
Talk to a doctor or nurse about which tube is good to use.
Use pictures or videos if that helps you understand better.
No, you should only use the exact type and size of inner tube that the doctor or tracheostomy tube maker says to use.
How can I tell if I need to change the inner tube more often?
If the tube inside needs to be changed more often, you might notice some signs:
- There's a lot of sticky stuff (mucus) on it.
- It's hard to breathe.
- The tube doesn't work as well to help you breathe.
You can ask someone to help check these things. If it's hard to understand, you can use pictures or videos. These help show what to look for. You can also talk to a doctor or nurse. They can explain and show what to do.
Who can help me if I am worried about changing the inner tube?
If you are worried about changing an inner tube, you can ask for help. Here are some things you can try:
- Ask a friend or family member who knows how to change an inner tube to help you.
- Watch a simple video online that shows how to change an inner tube step by step.
- Go to a bike shop and ask them to show you how to do it.
- Look for a picture guide that shows each step clearly.
- Practice with someone who can help you if you get stuck.
Remember, it is okay to ask for help if you need it.
You can get help from doctors and nurses. The NHS can help too. There are special nurses who know a lot about health. You can also find helpful information from hospitals and companies that make health products.
Useful Links
Useful links from: Tracheostomy
- NHS - Tracheostomy The NHS page provides comprehensive information on tracheostomy, including why it's needed, how it's performed, and the care involved.
- Tracheostomy Care - NHS UK This NHS page offers guidance on caring for a tracheostomy, with tips on cleaning, managing equipment, and recognizing potential complications.
- National Tracheostomy Safety Project The National Tracheostomy Safety Project provides resources and education about tracheostomy safety for patients, families, and healthcare providers.
- The Tracheostomy Review & Management Service (TRAMS) - St George's University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust St George's TRAMS initiative supports the safe management and review of tracheostomy patients within the hospital setting.
Have you found an error, or do you have a link or some information you would like to share? Please let us know using the form below.
- Ergsy carfully checks the information in the videos we provide here.
- Videos shown by Youtube after a video has completed, have NOT been reviewed by ERGSY.
- To view, click the arrow in centre of video.
- Most of the videos you find here will have subtitles and/or closed captions available.
- You may need to turn these on, and choose your preferred language.
- Go to the video you'd like to watch.
- If closed captions (CC) are available, settings will be visible on the bottom right of the video player.
- To turn on Captions, click settings .
- To turn off Captions, click settings again.