Which action is most appropriate to assess for an obstruction in a tracheostomy tube causing inadequate ventilation?

• A. Check the mechanical ventilator for malfunction.
• B. Look for blood or other secretions in the tube.
• C. Attempt to pass a suction catheter into the tube.
• D. Listen to breath sounds to assess for a pneumothorax.

Answer: (C)

The main idea is to directly test the tracheostomy tube’s patency, since a blockage inside the tube is a common cause of inadequate ventilation. Attempting to pass a suction catheter into the tube serves as a simple, immediate check of lumen openness—if the catheter can be advanced, it suggests the tube isn’t completely obstructed and suctioning can remove secretions to improve ventilation; if you can’t pass it, that indicates a significant obstruction needing prompt action, such as clearing or replacing the tube. While checking the ventilator for malfunction, looking for secretions, or listening for pneumothorax are helpful steps, they don’t assess the tube’s patency as directly or efficiently as attempting to pass a suction catheter.