Operating Room Assistant Nurse Manager Kaiser Permanente-Modesto Tracy, California, United States
Description: Description of team We have a collboration of nurses, physicians, wound care management, and operating room management working together to evaluator current process for placing new tracheostomy tubes.
Preparation and planning Tracheal pressure Injures were identified as a reoccurring injury. Factors contributing to the injury were identified. iLiterature search was performed.
Assessment A common area for pressure injuries to occur in the tracheostomy patient population is at the flange base of the trach tube. Injuries in this area are subjected to tight sutures, secretions, and dressing changes.
Implementation A trail of a new tracheostomy tube was presented to staff and physicians. Physicians agreed to try the product with engagement of the CVT team. New tracheostomy tube was trialed upon 20 Patients requiring a new tracheostomy placement.
Outcome Physician were able to place the new tube without complications. The new tracheostomy tube requires less sutures for maintaining placement.
Implications for Nursing The new tracheostomy tube is flexible and silicone, making it see through. The clear plate allows for better skin assessments in the postoperative period.