[hajiagambo]

To the pulm nurses and resp therapist. I work on a med/surg and step down unit and occasionally I get pts on vent. My question is what is the different b/w cuffed and cuffless trach cannula. Your input would be really appreciated.
thanks

[NRSKarenRN]

Cuffed tubes allow positive pressure ventilation and prevent aspiration. If the cuff isn't necessary for those reasons, patients will use a cuffless tube Some patients with a cuffed tube will use minimal leak technique for cuff inflation which will still permit speaking and swallowing of secreations.


Tracheostomy Tubes
http://www.ventusers.org/edu/valnews/val17-4f.html

Tracheostomy Tubes and Related Appliances


Tracheostomy and Speech ---great pics airway and trach devices