Originally published on July 30, 2010
C.L. asks, “If inadvertent decannulation occurs, what is the best patient positioning for reinsertion?”
Answer: Supine positioning with neck hyperextension is ideal for reinsertion. However, this may not be appropriate for all patients. The key is visualization of the stoma and adequate lighting. I have reinserted trachs in all positions, including sitting and standing.
Operator positioning is also important. The operator should be positioned on the side of their dominant hand. For example, I always stand on the patient’s left because I am left-handed.