What might indicate that a tracheostomy tube is obstructed?

Indications of a tracheostomy tube obstruction can manifest through various signs and symptoms, and recognizing these can be crucial in providing timely and effective care. Low oxygen saturation levels serve as a key indicator of obstruction, as they reflect inadequate oxygen exchange due to restricted airflow, which might arise from an obstruction in the airway. Coughing can occur when there is an attempt by the body to clear the obstruction or when secretions accumulate, suggesting that airflow is compromised. Wheezing is also an important symptom; it typically denotes turbulence in airflow possibly caused by partial obstruction in the airway. All these signs—low oxygen saturation levels, coughing, and wheezing—collectively point towards a potential obstruction of the tracheostomy tube, emphasizing the necessity for vigilant monitoring and prompt action in managing the patient’s airway.