An adult client who underwent a surgical tracheostomy 24 hours ago requires transport to the imaging department. The client requires continuous humidified oxygen via a tracheostomy collar and is on contact precautions for an active Clostridioides difficile infection. Which action is essential for the registered nurse to implement to prevent an adverse event and ensure safety during transport?
- Ensure that a manual resuscitation bag, an obturator, and two spare tracheostomy tubes accompany the client.Answer
- BDirect an unlicensed assistive personnel to transport the client alone and continuously assess their oxygen saturation.
- CAdminister an intravenous sedative before transport to prevent the client from forcefully dislodging the tracheostomy tube.
- DReplace the tracheostomy collar with a standard surgical mask over the stoma to prevent environmental contamination.
Answer
The nurse must ensure that a manual resuscitation bag, an obturator, and two spare tracheostomy tubes accompany the client.
Accidental decannulation is a high-risk, life-threatening complication for a client with a tracheostomy less than 72 hours old because the stoma tract has not yet matured and can rapidly close. To prevent hypoxic injury or death, the nurse must ensure that emergency equipment—specifically a manual resuscitation bag, an obturator, and two spare tracheostomy tubes (one of the same size and one a size smaller)—accompanies the client at all times, including during transport.
Step-by-Step Solution
Key Concept
Airway Safety and Emergency Equipment Readiness