Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Upper Respiratory Disorders Related

Review Timby's Introductory Medical-Surgical Nursing Thirteenth, North American Edition - Caring for Clients With Upper Respiratory Disorders related questions and content

A graduate practical nurse is caring for a client who has a tracheostomy tube. A seasoned nurse is assisting in providing guidance for completing tracheostomy care. When changing the ties, the client moves and dislodges the tube. Which of the following does the seasoned nurse do first?

  • A. Call for the registered nurse to reinsert the tube.
  • B. Place a dilator in the stoma to maintain the opening.
  • C. Cover the tracheostomy site with a sterile gauze to prevent infection.
  • D. Transfer the client to the emergency department.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: If the tracheostomy tube becomes dislodged, a dilator is initially placed to hold the edges of the stoma apart until a physician is able to reinsert the tube. A tracheal tube must never be forced back into place. Covering the tracheostomy sitewith gauze can obstruct the stoma, decreasing ventilation. If needed, transporting the client to the emergency department may occur but not until the airway is stabilized.