What are the two major reasons for performing tracheostomy care?

Performing tracheostomy care focuses primarily on maintaining the patency of the airway and ensuring the cleanliness of the stoma site. Keeping the airway patent is crucial because the tracheostomy tube can become obstructed by secretions, mucus, or other debris, which could block airflow and pose a serious risk to the patient's ability to breathe. Regular care helps clear any obstructions and ensures unobstructed airflow into the lungs.

Maintaining the cleanliness of the stoma site is equally important to prevent infection and promote healing. The stoma, or the opening created in the neck for the tracheostomy tube, requires regular cleaning to eliminate bacteria and prevent buildup of secretions, which can lead to skin irritation and infection.

Other options may address different aspects of patient care but do not capture the primary focuses of tracheostomy care, which are to keep the pathway for ventilation clear and to protect the site of the airway opening.