Tracheotomy and Tracheostomy at Monument Health
In some cases of long-term illness, medical teams may suggest breathing support in the form of a tracheostomy. This procedure allows air to pass into the lungs while bypassing the mouth and nose, making respiration easier in some cases.
This procedure is often lifesaving for those with certain illnesses. However, patients who have the procedure often need specialized care and support. At Monument Health, we provide expert tracheotomy care for patients in our facilities.
Our comprehensive and individualized services allow us to aid patients in breathing, maintaining the health of airways, and, in some cases, even regain important bodily functions, such as swallowing and speaking.
What Is the Difference Between Tracheotomy and Tracheostomy?
Tracheotomy is the name of a surgical procedure wherein a doctor and medical team make an incision in the neck and insert a breathing tube.
A tracheostomy refers to the opening and breathing tube itself. This opening is also called a “stoma,” a generalized term for an opening made in the body through a medical procedure.
Tracheotomy may be performed for many reasons. This includes swelling in the airway and other blockages, including mucus, long-term and severe breathing problems often requiring the use of a ventilator, some neurological conditions, lung disease, and more.
There are two kinds of tracheostomy — temporary and long-term. We care for patients with both at Monument Health and offer short-term rehabilitation services, as well as long-term care for patients with tracheostomy.
What Does Tracheostomy Care Involve at Monument Health?
After someone has tracheotomy surgery, ongoing, professional care is often necessary as complications are possible. Importantly, the airway must be kept clean and unobstructed. At Monument Health, our staff is specifically trained to care for stoma of all kinds, including tracheostomy.
Our staff expertly maintains proper placement of stoma and breathing tubes, as well as ensures the stoma is clean and maintained to the highest medical standards. In most cases, patients need airway suctioning to maintain proper airflow.
Of course, our skilled teams of licensed nurses are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to monitor breathing, oxygen levels, and other vital signs. Our staff maintains the highest degree of efficiency, professionalism, and care available anywhere in Utah.
The Role of Respiratory Therapy in Tracheostomy Care
For those with both short and long-term tracheostomy, respiratory therapy may be beneficial. Respiratory therapy is performed by specialists specifically trained to care for patients with a tracheostomy.
These trained nurses oversee airway management, cleaning, and suctioning, as well as ventilator support, if necessary. They also aid in patient education and, in some cases, breathing treatments and exercises.
Additionally, respiratory therapy can be paired with other therapies we routinely offer at Monument Health, including speech, physical, and occupational therapy.
In every case, at Monument Health, we create patient-specific care plans that offer our patients the unique support they need to recover quickly or live with dignity.
How Speech and Swallowing Therapy Works With a Tracheostomy
For some patients, tracheotomy can make speaking, eating, and drinking difficult before they get used to the stoma. Our speech and respiratory therapists help to re-teach tracheostomy patients how to speak and eat with the stoma.
Through structured and personalized therapy sessions, patients will re-learn how to eat, drink, and speak with the breathing tube. Our speech-language pathologists work closely with our residents to re-build the skills that allow speaking and eating with ease.
Speech therapy may involve techniques to use specialized equipment for speaking, the strengthening of speaking muscles, and techniques to move air over the vocal cords properly.
Alternatively, speech language pathologists may teach alternative communication methods and the use of communication aids. Swallowing and eating therapy also involve exercises to ensure food and liquids move effectively through the throat.
What Type of Staff Cares for Tracheostomy Patients?
Tracheostomy patients often require specialized staff that are available around-the-clock. Monument Health provides 24/7 care from licensed nurses and support staff. Our medical teams are also overseen by physicians who are able to prescribe or alter the dosage on medications and much more.
Other members may include respiratory therapists and speech language pathologists who can provide specialized care to those patients with a tracheostomy. Physical and occupational may also be present to assist with mobility and other daily activities.
In all cases, patients are cared for by a friendly, competent, and well-trained team selected to provide the best care to you and your loved ones possible.
Tracheotomy and Tracheostomy Care at Monument Health
If you or a loved one is facing a tracheotomy, call Monument Health for the most comprehensive and compassionate care in Utah. We’re happy to answer many questions over the phone, and we’re happy to offer tours of our facilities.