PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - Kent L Christopher
TI  - Tracheostomy Decannulation
DP  - 2005 Apr 01
TA  - Respiratory Care
PG  - 538--541
VI  - 50
IP  - 4
4099  - http://rc.rcjournal.com/content/50/4/538.short
4100  - http://rc.rcjournal.com/content/50/4/538.full
AB  - The respiratory therapist plays an integral role in tracheostomy tube decannulation. Removal of the tracheostomy tube should be considered only if the original upper-airway obstruction is resolved, if airway secretions are controlled, and if mechanical ventilation is no longer needed. Predictors of success include ability to produce a vigorous cough and the absence of aspiration. Tracheostomy decannulation requires caution, particularly following a prolonged period of tracheostomy use. The tracheostomy tube decannulation process is well suited for therapist-implemented protocols.