Signs of infection or other problems in patients with tracheostomies
The best way to prepare for emergencies and troubleshooting complications with tracheostomy patients is to be knowledgeable of the signs and symptoms to look for. Signs of infection may include changes in the color, volume, odor and consistency of sputum. Look for blood-tinged sputum or changes in the consistency of sputum. Either the patient or a caregiver may be the best historian in regards to the consistency of the sputum. If the mucous becomes problematic you will see signs of respiratory distress, which include increased work of breathing, wheezing, coughing, increased rate of respiration and increase in the use of accessory muscles.
Problems with the stoma are indicated by bleeding, a discharge or odor from the stoma, swelling or redness, or a pulsating tracheostomy tube. Other systemic symptoms may include fever, loss of appetite, swelling in the hands or feet, headaches, sleepiness, visual disturbance, dizziness, cyanosis, confusion and anxiety.
