Patients with tracheostomy tubes are unable to produce voicing when the cuff is full inflated.  Airflow goes in and out through the tracheostomy tube only and bypasses the upper airway.  Airflow does not flow through the vocal folds, rendering the patient aphonic (no voicing).   Deflating the tracheostomy tube cuff allows airflow to pass up… read more

Mechanical Ventilation It is important for speech-language pathologists to understand the different modes in mechanical ventilation.  Individuals require mechanical ventilation for different reasons.  It is used for individuals with respiratory failure who are unable to breathe on their own.  Different modes in mechanical ventilation help to determine how far along in the weaning process a… read more

Removal of a tracheostomy tube is decided by a medical doctor.  However, the input of several members of the patients care-team are important for safe and effective removal.  Optimally, the clinician will work as a team member with a variety of health care practitioners, including physicians, respiratory care practitioners, nurses, rehabilitation personnel, registered dieticians, social… read more

  STANDARDS OF CARE/PRACTICE ONE WAY SPEAKING VALVE PASSY-MUIR VALVE  ISSUE DATE: NO.:   RCS- 605 REVISION DATE(S): Page  1  of 4 JCAHO STANDARDS/DHS REGULATION: REVIEW DATE(S): CROSS REFERENCES: DESCRIPTION The Passy-Muir Valve is a specialized one way speaking vavle that attaches to the hub of the tracheostomy tube or swivel adapter. STANDARD OF CARE The… read more