Tracheotomy Care

Tracheotomy Skin Care

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Purpose | When | Supplies Needed l How to Clean l Signs of Infection l How to Treat Problems

Purpose

Skin at the tracheotomy site needs to remain clean and dry. If drainage collects around the tracheotomy tube, germs can grow and cause infection or skin rashes.

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When

Clean and look at this area 2-3 times a day, or more often if there is a redness, irritation, drainage or cuts.

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Supplies Needed

Here is a list of supplies that you will need for cleaning your child's tracheotomy tube:

  • ½ strength hydrogen peroxide -- mix equal
    parts hydrogen peroxide and water (OR)
  • Mild soap and water once skin is healed
  • Cotton swabs
  • Paper cups
  • Gauze 2x2x or telfa (optional)

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Illustration of how to swab tracheotomy tube.
Figure A: This drawing illustrations the proper way to swab the tracheotomy opening when cleaning your child's tube.

How to Clean

Here are the steps for cleaning your child's tracheotomy tube:

  • Wash and dry hands
  • Set up supplies
  • Look at the neck, noting cuts or signs of infection
  • Prepare ½ strength hydrogen peroxide in a clean cup
  • Dip cotton swab in hydrogen peroxide solution
  • Starting at the stoma, stroke away from the tracheotomy opening, using one stroke per swab. Discard swab. (See Figure A.)
  • Clean the flanges of the tracheotomy tube
  • Using dry cotton swabs, dry the skin the same way you cleaned it
  • Again look at the neck
  • Apply a dressing, if needed for excess drainage or if tracheotomy tube is rubbing the skin.
  • Do not cut the gauze, to prevent frayed fibers being breathed in the tube.

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Signs of Infection

Here are the signs that indicate your child's tracheotomy tube site may be infected:

  • Redness
  • Drainage
  • Foul odor
  • Swelling
  • Cuts

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How to Treat Skin Problems

The use of creams and lotions on the neck and the tracheotomy site is not routine. Call your doctor or nurse practitioner for advice:

  • If there is any signs of infection or irritation of the skin surrounding the tracheotomy tube
  • And to be seen for a skin care problem at the tracheotomy site

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Revised 7/07