Tracheostomy Care

These guidelines can help you care for your trach tube, your stoma, and the skin around the stoma.

Suctioning Your Tracheostomy

Suctioning keeps your trach tube clear of excess mucus. Suction as advised by your healthcare provider. Follow these guidelines and any others you're given.

Having an X-ray

An X-ray uses a small amount of radiation to create images of your bones and internal organs. X-rays are most often used to detect bone or joint problems, or to check the heart and lungs (chest X-ray).

Using a Peak Flow Meter

A peak flow meter measures how fast you can push air out of your lungs. This tells you how well you are controlling your asthma. Measure your peak flow as many times a day as your healthcare provider tells you to.

Transfer: Bed to Wheelchair

If your loved one will use a wheelchair, you need to know about transfers. For safety's sake, learn how to help your loved one in and out of the wheelchair. One basic method is shown here.

Transfer: Wheelchair to Toilet

If your loved one will use a wheelchair, you need to know about transfers. For safety's sake, learn how to help your loved one in and out of the wheelchair. One basic method is shown here.

Staff Ed: Needles and Other Sharps

Used needles, lancets, blades, and other sharp devices (known as sharps) can cut or prick you. This can expose you to bloodborne germs. Take time to handle sharps safely.