Pre-cut
tracheostomy ties
Clean or new tracheostomy tube
Introduction: Changing the Trach Tube
•Always have an extra tracheostomy tube and
pre-cut tracheostomy ties with your child at
all times.
•Change the tracheostomy tube once a week or if
it becomes plugged with secretions.
•Wait an hour after your child eats before changing
the tracheostomy tube to prevent vomiting.
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about changing the trach tube.
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2. Insert the obturator into the tracheostomy tube.
3. Place both on a sterile gauze with the obturator facing up.
4. Insert the new ties into the flanges. Try not to touch the end of the tube or obturator.
5. Lubricate the end of the tracheostomy with lubricating jelly. Never use Vaseline or any other
product to lubricate! Place a roll under your child’s shoulders.
6. Suction your child as needed.
7. Unfasten the Velcro ties on the back of your child’s neck.
8. Pull out the old tracheostomy tube.
9. Pick up the new tube. Make sure the obturator is at the end of the tube.
10. Use a back and down motion to insert the tube into the stoma.
11. Immediately pull out the obturator after the new tube is in place.
12. Overlap the end of the ties behind your child’s neck.
13. Check the fit of the trach ties.
Click here to view the video of this procedure.
If you have difficulty inserting the new tracheostomy tube, follow these steps:
2. Reposition your child’s neck and try to reinsert the tube.
3. Spread the skin around the stoma and try to reinsert the tube.
4. Gently insert a suction catheter to open the stoma.
Call 911 if you are still unable to replace the tracheostomy tube.