How to Apply Suction to a Fenestrated Trach Tube

A surgical procedure that requires cutting an opening in your windpipe is called a tracheostomy. The opening is referred to as a stoma, and a tracheostomy tube is inserted into the opening. A fenestrated tracheostomy allows you to breath through your mouth and nose, gives you the ability to talk while it is inserted and is not suctioned. Suctioning a tracheostomy involves using a machine with tubes to clear mucus from your airway.

Things You'll Need

• Sterile gloves
• Protective apron
• Suctioning equipment
• Saline solution
• Clean disposable cup
• Collection container

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Put on sterile gloves, apron and a face shield if you are suctioning the tracheostomy of a family member or patient. Using sterile coverings protects you from secretions and protects the patient or loved one from potential life-threatening infections. You should wear sterile gloves if you are suctioning your own tracheostomy. If you are suctioning a family memeber's tracheostomy or your own, it is likely that you are performing this procedure at home. There are times it is necessary to continue assisted breathing outside of the hospital setting.

• 2

  Remove the fenestrated tracheostomy tube if suctioning is needed to clear mucus. The fenestrated tube has a hole in the inner cannula, the portion of the tube that is inserted into your throat. Insert a non-fenestrated tube in its place. A non-fenestrated tube will not have a hole in the inner cannula. If you insert a suction tube into a fenestrated tracheostomy, there is a risk that the suctioning tube can pass through the hole and cause damage to the trachea.

• 3

  Assess your suctioning equipment to make sure that it is working. A suctioning machine will draw mucus out of your airway and allow you to breath more freely. Turn on your suctioning machine, and place a gloved finger over the suction tubing. You should feel a pulling sensation against your finger. Check your catheter for cracks if it is not disposable. A catheter is the tube that is attached to the suction tubing on your suction machine, while the opposite end is inserted into the tracheostomy.

• 4

  Pour sterile saline solution into a clean cup or bowl. Dip one end of the catheter into the solution and attach the other end to your machine. Insert the catheter into the tracheostomy until you feel a resistance; do not force it. Slowly begin to pull the catheter out, and apply suction. As you are pulling the catheter out, roll the tube between your fingers. Only apply suction for 10 seconds or a maximum of 15 seconds. Use a clean catheter if you need to suction again. Thoroughly clean your fenestrated tracheostomy before reinserting it.