Is it acceptable to scrub the inside of the tracheostomy cannula with a brush during tracheostomy care?

The correct approach during tracheostomy care is to avoid scrubbing the inside of the tracheostomy cannula with a brush because it can cause damage. Tracheostomy care focuses on maintaining the patency and cleanliness of the cannula while minimizing the risk of injury or infections. The inner surfaces of the tracheostomy tube are delicate and scrubbing them with a brush can lead to scratches or abrasions, which may provide a surface for bacteria to thrive and increase the risk of infection.

Instead, proper care typically involves gently cleaning the exterior with saline or an approved solution and possibly using a suction catheter if secretions are present. The emphasis is on gentle care and using appropriate cleaning techniques to ensure both hygiene and the integrity of the equipment, thus preventing complications associated with improper handling. Therefore, regular and careful cleaning without the use of brushes is the recommended practice for tracheostomy maintenance.