We have to change the tapes that hold the trachy in place and dressing everyday and clean all around the stoma. This is very much a two person job as the trachy is unstable when changing the tapes. we have it down pat now, Stuart does what I think is the worst bit, which is hold the tube in and I do the clean and change.
For my part I think sitting and holding the trachy tube stable is the easy part, lucky really that we didn't both prefer to be doing the one thing!
I have to have all the bits laid out in a very specific way of course! We also have to check for granulomas, build up of scar tissue around the stoma and treat them if there are any there. The Swedish nose, otherwise known as as an HME which keeps his tube moist and grot out is changed as often as needed. Suctioning again is as needed. The tube itself is changed every couple of weeks or more frequently if there are problems, ie. colds, grot or a build up of secretions.
It is amazing how over time we have both become more relaxed with things when dealing with the trachy, though I'd never say we are comfortable with it.
The poor little thing has had a bit of a time of it with the fit of the tubes and had a very sore neck on and off but he takes it all so well. The temporary stiches also didn't dissolve as they should have done and had to be removed. Mind you I do think his first words will be 'bloody trachy' or words to that effect!!
The photos show some of the things that are involved with the daily care of Alfie's trachy.
Trachy changed 2 weekly, tapes and dressing which are changed daily and swedish nose.
Forceps and scissors, swaddling blanket that we have to use to calm him to do the changes.
Normasol and swabs for cleaning.
Saline and syringes to loosen secretions.
Catheters for suctioning.
The suction unit that has to go everywhere Alfie goes, and this shows scale and normal use!
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