What is the role of the licensed practical nurse in providing tracheostomy care?
It is within the scope of practice of the licensed practical nurse to perform tracheostomy care, nasopharyngeal suctioning and to suction secretions from a trach/endotracheal tube. It is within the scope of practice of the licensed practical nurse to suction secretions from a tracheostomy. However, it is not within the scope of practice of the licensed practical nurse to perform deep right main stem suctioning. If deep right main stem suctioning is required for the patient, a registered nurse must perform this procedure. Furthermore, the appropriately prepared licensed practical nurse may replace a tracheostomy provided: • The nurse is educated and competent in the procedure. This education and competence are documented initially and on an ongoing basis; • The tract is well healed (for replacement); • There is a medical order for the procedure; • The nurse practices according to generally accepted standards; • All the necessary resources are available; • The patient’s status does not c
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