hospice patient Vs. tracheostomy

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Why a hospice patient has a tracheostomy? Does it mean the patient can be suctioned? but suctioning is very uncomfortable, isn't it? If suctioning is very uncomfortable, is it against the purpose of hospice care which is to make patients comfort?

Any reply is greatly appreciated!

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Specializes in LTC, Psych, Hospice.

A tracheotomy is an incision into the trachea (windpipe) that forms a temporary or permanent opening. A tube is inserted through the opening to allow passage of air and removal of secretions. Instead of breathing through the nose and mouth, the pt will now breath through the trach. There are many reasons a person may have a trach such as tumors, severe head and/or injuries, etc.

Trachs do have to be suctioned @ times. Just because a pt is on hospice doesn't mean the trach will no longer be suctioned. I hope this helps.

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Specializes in PICU, NICU, L&D, Public Health, Hospice.

If the patient is alert and mentally intact he/she may be able to cough out secretions unassisted by suction, or he/she may be able to suction self.

Pulmonary toilet in hospice patients is ALWAYS balanced with comfort but that does not imply that we would not suction, just that we would provide for comfort as our foremost goal and objective. Sometimes that means that we MUST suction.

It is all about the individualized POC with focus on patient goals for their care.

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thanks for your great answers to my question, hospice nurse lpn and tewdles!

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