Episode 31 - Vents and Trachs
Epsiode 31 - Vents and Trachs
Released
December 2024
Hosts
Dr. John Hill
Scott Wildenheim
Caleb Ferroni
Ray Pace
Episode Video
Episode Audio
Show Notes
Summary: In this episode, we explore advanced airway management for special populations, focusing on tracheostomies and ventilator management. We address common fears, practical techniques, and troubleshooting tips for pre-hospital providers. Our expert panel discusses various scenarios, patient needs, and equipment handling to enhance confidence and competence in managing these critical situations.
Key Topics:
Introduction:
Overview of advanced airway management for special populations.
Addressing common fears and misconceptions about tracheostomies.
Tracheostomy Management:
Types of tracheostomies: cuffed and uncuffed.
Indications for each type of tracheostomy.
Handling tracheostomy emergencies and troubleshooting.
Cuffed vs. Uncuffed Tracheostomies:
Characteristics and use cases for cuffed and uncuffed tracheostomies.
Common scenarios and patient needs.
Importance of understanding the specific type of tracheostomy in each patient.
Inner and Outer Cannulas:
Role and maintenance of inner and outer cannulas.
The importance of having spare inner cannulas.
Steps to replace and inspect inner cannulas during an emergency.
Ventilator Management:
Basics of ventilator settings and their significance.
Key ventilator settings: tidal volume, PEEP, and rate.
Importance of matching ventilator settings to the patient’s needs.
Transitioning from ventilator to BVM and maintaining PEEP.
Troubleshooting Ventilator Issues:
The DOPE mnemonic: Dislodgement, Obstruction, Pneumothorax, Equipment failure.
Strategies for addressing common ventilator problems.
Importance of capnography in monitoring ventilated patients.
Special Considerations:
Managing patients with chronic respiratory conditions.
Understanding the patient’s baseline ventilator settings.
Transport considerations for patients on home or long-term care ventilators.
Handling ventilator power failures and using inverters or alternative power sources.
Practical Tips and Experiences:
Personal experiences and lessons learned from the field.
The importance of training and familiarity with tracheostomy and ventilator equipment.
Encouraging ongoing education and hands-on practice.
The Protocols
From The Episode
Caleb discusses the backup plan to the ventilator
Scott describes the different type of tracheostomies
Dr. Hill describes how to manage trach patients
Ray discusses the power issues in most ambulances