What action should a respiratory therapist take in an emergency involving a tracheostomy tube?

In an emergency involving a tracheostomy tube, the appropriate action is to reinsert the tube. This is critical because a tracheostomy tube can become dislodged or blocked, leading to an airway obstruction, which is life-threatening. If the tube is removed, the stoma (the opening created in the neck) may start to close rapidly, complicating the situation further. By reinserting the tube, you are ensuring that the patient's airway remains open and secure, allowing them to breathe.

When an emergency arises, the first responder should assess the situation quickly and determine if the tube is indeed dislodged or if there is another issue. If a new tube is available and the original has not obstructed the airway significantly, reinserting the original tube is the preferred action as it is already sized and positioned for the patient.

While it is important in emergencies to call for medical assistance, this action alone does not directly solve the immediate problem of airway obstruction. Removing the tube completely would exacerbate the situation, while simply replacing it with a new one might not be appropriate if the original tube can be successfully reinserted. Timely action of reinserting the tube can stabilize the patient until further medical help arrives.