NCLEX tracheostomy care practice questions

What is the purpose of tracheostomy care?

To maintain airway patency, prevent infection, and promote comfort.

True or False: Suctioning should be performed routinely.

False - Suctioning is only done as needed to clear secretions.

Fill in the blank: The normal range for tracheostomy tube cuff pressure is ____ mmHg.

20-25 mmHg

What are signs of tracheostomy tube obstruction?

Increased respiratory effort, stridor, decreased oxygen saturation.

Cause → Effect: Excessive cuff pressure can cause _____.

Tracheal ischemia and necrosis.

What should be assessed before suctioning a tracheostomy?

Respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and indication for suctioning.

True or False: It is safe to use cotton swabs for tracheostomy site cleaning.

False - Cotton fibers can be left behind, leading to infection.

What is a priority nursing action post-tracheostomy tube change?

Ensure the tube is secured properly to prevent dislodgment.

List two complications of tracheostomy.

- Tube dislodgment - Infection at the site

Compare fenestrated and non-fenestrated tracheostomy tubes.

Fenestrated tubes allow air to flow through the vocal cords, enabling speech.

What should a nurse do if a tracheostomy tube becomes dislodged?

Reinsert the tube or use a new one, and provide ventilation as needed.

What is the recommended suction catheter size for adults?

12-14 French, depending on the tube size.

True or False: Humidification is essential for patients with a tracheostomy.

True - It prevents secretions from becoming thick and obstructing the airway.

What are signs of tracheostomy infection?

Redness, swelling, drainage, fever.

What is a key priority in tracheostomy care?

Maintaining a patent airway is crucial. Obstruction can lead to hypoxia.

True or False: Tracheostomy tubes should be changed routinely every week.

False. Change only if indicated, based on clinical assessment.

What supplies are essential for tracheostomy care?

Sterile gloves, suction catheter, tracheostomy tube, saline, and gauze.

Fill in the blank: The normal range for tracheostomy cuff pressure is _____ mmHg.

20-30 mmHg, to prevent tracheal damage.

How often should tracheostomy suctioning be performed?

As needed, based on patient assessment and secretions.

Cause → Effect: What happens if tracheostomy cuffs are overinflated?

Tracheal ischemia and necrosis can occur.

What is the purpose of humidification in tracheostomy care?

To prevent airway drying and maintain mucous membrane moisture.

True or False: You should always clean the stoma with hydrogen peroxide.

False. Use sterile saline to cleanse the stoma site.

Comparison: Tracheostomy vs. Endotracheal Tube.

- Tracheostomy: long-term, direct airway access. - Endotracheal: short-term, usually oral.

What signs indicate a tracheostomy tube obstruction?

Increased respiratory effort, decreased oxygen saturation, and abnormal lung sounds.

What should you do if a tracheostomy tube is dislodged?

Attempt to reinsert if trained; if unsuccessful, use a new tube or bag-mask ventilation.

What is the recommended suction pressure range for adults?

100-120 mmHg for effective suctioning without trauma.

True or False: Tracheostomy care should be performed only by a physician.

False. Nurses can perform tracheostomy care with proper training.

What are signs of infection at the tracheostomy site?

Redness, swelling, purulent drainage, and increased pain.