Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam Related

Review Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam related questions and content

The healthcare provider is providing care to a client with a tracheostomy. Which action should the healthcare provider take to prevent tracheostomy complications?

  • A. Use sterile technique when performing tracheostomy care.
  • B. Suction the tracheostomy tube every hour.
  • C. Keep the tracheostomy tube cuff inflated at all times.
  • D. Change the tracheostomy ties daily.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Use sterile technique when performing tracheostomy care. This is crucial to prevent infections that can lead to complications. Sterile technique helps minimize the risk of introducing harmful pathogens into the tracheostomy site. Using clean rather than sterile technique can increase the client's risk of infection.

Choice B is incorrect because suctioning the tracheostomy tube every hour can lead to mucosal damage and increase the risk of infection. Choice C is incorrect because keeping the tracheostomy tube cuff inflated at all times can cause pressure ulcers and damage the trachea. Choice D is incorrect because changing the tracheostomy ties daily is unnecessary and can increase the risk of dislodging the tracheostomy tube, leading to complications.