Glossary
This is a list of words and meanings used in the package:
- HME (Heat and Moisture Exchanger) – a filter that fits onto end of the tracheostomy tube. This warms and moistens air that is breathed through a tracheostomy [2].
- Humidification – to warm and moisten air [14].
- Larynx – the organ that produces the sounds of voice and speech. Also know as the voice box or vocal cords [14].
- Obturator – the introducer that is provided with the tracheotomy tube. When inserting the tube, this helps to guide the tube into the stoma [2].
- Secretions – fluid released from cells which needs to be removed from the tracheostomy tube to prevent it becoming blocked.
- Stoma – the opening where the tracheostomy tube is inserted [2].
- Suctioning – removing secretions from the tracheostomy tube with a catheter using a reduction in pressure [14].
- Trachea – the passage for air between the voice box and the lungs. Also known as the windpipe [14].
- Tracheostomy – an opening made through the front of the neck into the trachea. This allows air to pass directly into the lower airways and into the lungs [14].