The nurse caring for a patient with a disposable chest drainage system can promote effective tube function and patient safety by:

A. Raise the head of the bed to high Fowler's position: This promotes optimal lung expansion and drainage, reduces aspiration risk, and facilitates easier tracheostomy care.
B. Remove the inner cannula with the ungloved hand: Sterile technique is required when handling the inner cannula to prevent infection.
C. Suction tracheostomy before beginning care: Suctioning clears secretions and ensures better visibility for care, reducing the risk of aspiration during the procedure.
D. Clean cannula with gauze and replace and lock: The inner cannula should be cleaned per protocol using sterile saline and replaced securely.

A) Secure the tracheostomy ties so that fingers cannot fit between the ties and the neck. The ties should be secure but loose enough to fit one finger between the ties and the neck to prevent skin breakdown and maintain comfort.
B) Suction for 20 seconds. Suctioning for 20 seconds is too long and may cause hypoxia. Suction should not exceed 5 to 10 seconds.
C) Clean secretions from the tube using hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide can irritate the delicate tissues and is not recommended. Saline or prescribed cleaning agents are preferred.
D) Set the vacuum pressure at 120 mmHg for suctioning. For a toddler, suction pressure should typically be between 80 and 120 mmHg to prevent mucosal damage.