How to Tie the Posey Tie

A tracheostomy is a surgical procedure that creates an opening through the neck and into the trachea. A tube is then placed through the opening to provide an airway and to remove secretions from the lungs. Although a tracheostomy may be performed as an emergency procedure, it is most often used in patients who require long-term support from a ventilator. After the tube has been placed, ties are used to hold the tube securely in place as dislodging could have life-threatening consequences. While home tracheostomy care is common, consult with a health professional for proper training.

Instructions

• 1

  Fasten the tracheostomy device to the supplied neck pad, looping the supplied "hook" tape through one of the slots located on the side of the device and attaching it to the pad with the supplied "hook" fastener. Bring the neck pad behind the neck and repeat the fastening procedure using the slot on the other side of the tube.

• 2

  Drape the tie around the back of the neck so the ends hang down over each shoulder. Cross the ties beneath the tracheostomy connector and bring each end back over the top of the device.

• 3

  Cross each side of the tie to create an "X" shape at the top of the connector. Bring the right side under and behind the "X" and pull gently to tighten. Make a loop with the right side of the tie, using your fingers to close the open end. Bring the left side across, then behind the front of the loop. While still holding the right loop in your fingers, feed a looped section of the left side through the center hole that is created, then pull each loop tightly to secure the knot. This is the same bow knot method that is commonly used to tie shoelaces.