Tracheostomy

Question 1

List the indications for a tracheostomy (5 answers)

Answer 1

Airway obstruction from foreign body or oedema
Prolonged mechanical ventilation
Unable to maintain airway
Excessive secretions with poor cough/expiratory flow
Upper airway surgery (above trachea)

Question 2

What is a tracheostomy?

Answer 2

Semi or fully permanent opening in the trachea which encourages air flow

Question 3

What is a laryngectomy

Question 4

Which patient group or specialty are more likely to require a tracheostomy?

Answer 4

ITU