Foam tracheostomy straps
Tracheostomy ties
It is very important that the child’s tube is kept securely in place with cotton ties or foam straps [5, 6]. These are attached to the wings (flange) of the tube. These ties or straps need to be changed when they are dirty or wet, and when the tube is changed [4]. You will need a an assistant to hold the child’s tube while you change the ties [2, 6].
How to change tracheostomy ties
Checking tracheostomy ties
- Wash and dry your hands [2].
- If you are using cotton ties, cut 2 pieces. Cut the ends on an angle to make them easier to thread [2].
- Make sure the child is lying on their back with a rolled towel under their shoulders [2, 6].
- Clean around the stoma [2].
- Ask the assistant to hold the tube until you have finished changing the ties [2, 6].
- Remove the old ties or foam straps.
- Thread the clean tapes though the wings of the tube [2, 6].
- Sit the child up with their head slightly forward. Secure the ties with enough room to place a small finger under the tapes.
- If you are using cotton tapes, tie with a reef knot.
- If you are using foam straps, make sure the Velcro is secure. A nappy pin may make foam straps more secure [2, 6].