Determining how much humidity is needed for your tracheostomy will get
easier as you become better aquainted with your home environment, and
your own "fluid status". You may find your needs are different
in the winter, than in summer, or that you need to breath less moisture
if you drink more. Your airway is very efficient in supplying moisture
to the air that enters your lungs. When it gets behind, your secretions
may thicken and be difficult to remove from your airway and lungs. If
you are providing adequate humidity, in the form of inhaled moisture,
you may be able to "cough" up secretions that you would otherwise
need to suction out.
Keep all supplies and equipment used for maintaining your airway very,
very clean.
DAILY - Replace water in the water bottle (AP Neb) with fresh distilled
water.
TWICE WEEKLY - Clean the AP Neb and the drain bag, change the tubing,
and wipe clean your mask.
WEEKLY - Clean the filter on your air compressor, and inventory
your supplies.
MONTHLY - Change the tubing on the suction machine, if it has been
used.
To clean your AP Neb, wash it is sudsy water-just as you would your dishes.
Rinse it well, then soak the parts for 30 minutes in one part white vinegar
and one part water. Rinse thoroughly, then air dry on clean toweling before
reassembly.
Be sure to keep extra supplies on hand. Always maintain a backup minimum
stock on items such as suction catheters and gauze sponges. Inventory
your supplies weekly, on a Monday or Tuesday, to allow time to order and
receive what you need prior to the weekend.