• Regular changes of the tracheal cannula are required in order to maintain the patency and the effectiveness of the tracheostomy.
• Below is a suggested method that can serve as a guide; discuss the specific type of medical supplies and equipment used for your child with your child’s healthcare team.

Considerations:

• Changing tracheal cannula is simple but for safety reasons, it is recommended that it be performed by 2 adults. The first person stabilizes the tracheal cannula by placing their fingers on the flanges and removes the old cannula while the second person inserts the new one.
• It is normal that that your child feels a bit of discomfort in their neck near the tracheostomy after changing the tracheal cannula.
• Changing the tracheal cannula can also cause an increase in cough and secretions (that can be pink in color) for a few hours. If this persists, contact your child’s healthcare team.
• Normally this procedure takes place easily; occasionally it may be difficult to reinsert the tracheal cannula due to swelling or irritation of the trachea. Refer to section “Frequently asked questions/ Resistance or impossibility of tracheal cannula reinsertion” if needed.
• If the type of tracheal cannula used by your child is reusable, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations regarding the number of uses.
• Good handwashing is essential before and after providing care.
• Ensure the comfort of your child during the care by using different positioning and distraction techniques.

• The frequency of regular tracheal cannula changes is determined by your child’s healthcare team.
• It is necessary to change the tracheal cannula if it is blocked (ex: accumulation of secretions, foreign object); these situations should be discussed with your child’s healthcare team.
• Preferably, should be done before meals or two hours after meals to avoid vomiting or reflux.