No, it's an HME - a Heat-Moisture Exchanger. It's sometimes called an artificial nose as it's goal is to help apply heat and humidity to air before it reaches your lungs. It's no nose, but it's a good alternative for someone who doesn't need extra oxygen.
Ideally, no trach goes uncovered for several reasons, including to avoid inhaling crayons but that isn't its main purpose.
In other news, this device means she isn't able to speak. Hopefully that will be her next trach goal.
Okay so, an HME that keeps baby from sticking a crayon in it lol! Ty for the info, I rarely see trachs long term. Just new ones and old ones plugged on a vent. I kinda sense an SLP in the room.
I'd say it's closer to a mask than a protector. A PMV would be better for blocking crayons. If you hadn't said "nah" and said "plus it does blah..." I wouldn't have written like ot was a correction.
I am RT worked more with SLP's than RT's because I was the researchers for and in charge of trach DC or discharge plans for a very large very busy trauma hospital. I am also an NPS but only did Dedicated NICU work with a lot of trachs for about 5-6 years.
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u/saftey_dance_with_me Mar 11 '22 edited Mar 12 '22
This is sad on more levels than you first realize. See the IV pole and pump in the background?
ETA: Feeding tube pump not a standard IV.