The nurse is changing the ties of the client with a tracheostomy. The safest method of changing the tracheostomy ties is to:
A. Apply the new tie before removing the old one.
B. Have a helper present.
C. Hold the tracheostomy with the nondominant hand while removing the old tie.
D. Ask the doctor to suture the tracheostomy in place.
Correct Answer: A. Apply the new tie before removing the old one.
Leaving the old ties in place while securing the clean ties prevents inadvertent dislodging of the tracheostomy tube.
Option B: Having a helper is good, but the helper might not prevent the client from coughing out the tracheotomy.
Option C: Hold the tracheostomy with the nondominant hand while removing the old tie is not the best way to prevent the client from coughing out the tracheotomy.
Option D: Asking the doctor to suture the tracheostomy in place is unnecessary.