During tracheostomy obstruction, which action is performed after the airway is open?

During tracheostomy obstruction, which action is performed after the airway is open?

• A. Begin ventilations as necessary/possible
• B. Wipe neck opening with gauze
• C. Remove tracheostomy tube
• D. Start chest compressions

Answer: (A)

Opening the airway in a tracheostomy obstruction is only the first step; once the airway is open, the next priority is to provide ventilation. Delivering breaths helps restore oxygen delivery and gas exchange, so you begin ventilations as necessary or possible using a bag‑valve device suited for a tracheostomy. Actions like wiping the neck opening don’t restore ventilation, and removing the tracheostomy tube is a more drastic step you’d consider only if you cannot ventilate with the tube in place. Chest compressions are reserved for cardiac arrest and aren’t the immediate action for an obstructured airway unless there’s no pulse. If ventilation remains unsuccessful after opening the airway, reassess, suction, and consider tube-related issues or replacement as needed.

Opening the airway in a tracheostomy obstruction is only the first step; once the airway is open, the next priority is to provide ventilation. Delivering breaths helps restore oxygen delivery and gas exchange, so you begin ventilations as necessary or possible using a bag‑valve device suited for a tracheostomy. Actions like wiping the neck opening don’t restore ventilation, and removing the tracheostomy tube is a more drastic step you’d consider only if you cannot ventilate with the tube in place. Chest compressions are reserved for cardiac arrest and aren’t the immediate action for an obstructured airway unless there’s no pulse. If ventilation remains unsuccessful after opening the airway, reassess, suction, and consider tube-related issues or replacement as needed.