Tracheostomy Care
A tracheostomy (often shortened to “trach”) is a surgical opening in the front of the neck that provides a direct airway to the windpipe. It’s typically placed when someone can’t breathe safely through their mouth and nose, often after prolonged ventilator use, head or neck surgery, airway obstruction, or severe neurological injury. If your loved one has a trach, they need specialized nursing and respiratory care to keep the airway clean, open, and free of complications.
What trach care involves
The trach tube needs regular cleaning and changing to prevent infection and blockage. Suctioning removes mucus and secretions that the patient may not be able to cough up on their own. The skin around the trach site needs daily care to prevent irritation and breakdown. Respiratory therapists and trained nurses handle all of this at MediLodge.
Beyond the physical care, the team also addresses communication. A trach can make it difficult or impossible to speak normally. Speech-language pathologists work with trach patients on alternative communication methods and, when appropriate, on speaking valves. These are one-way valves placed on the trach tube that redirect airflow through the vocal cords and allow speech.
Long-term management vs. decannulation
Some patients have a trach temporarily and work toward decannulation, which means having the trach tube removed once they can breathe and protect their airway on their own. Others require a trach indefinitely. Either way, the care at MediLodge is the same: keep the airway safe, manage respiratory health, prevent complications, and maintain the best possible quality of life. The American Thoracic Society provides patient education resources on living with a tracheostomy.
Who provides the care
Respiratory therapists, registered nurses, and certified nursing assistants all play a role. At MediLodge locations that offer trach care, staff receive specific training in tracheostomy management, and respiratory therapists are available 24/7.
Getting started
Find a MediLodge location near you that offers tracheostomy care and contact the facility directly. Like ventilator care, trach beds may be limited, so early planning with your hospital discharge team helps.