Tracheostomy (Trach) Services in Florida Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation

A tracheostomy is a surgical opening in the neck that provides direct access to the trachea (windpipe) for breathing. It may be needed for prolonged mechanical ventilation, airway obstruction, severe respiratory failure, or to protect the airway in patients with impaired swallowing or neurological conditions. Tracheostomies can be temporary or long-term depending on the underlying condition.

Routine tracheostomy tube changes are typically performed every 1-4 weeks depending on the type of tube, manufacturer recommendations, and individual patient needs. Our skilled nursing teams follow physician orders and clinical protocols for scheduled tube changes. Emergency tube changes are performed immediately if the tube becomes dislodged or obstructed.

Speech ability depends on the type of tracheostomy tube and whether the patient is on a ventilator. Patients with cuffed tubes or on ventilators typically cannot speak. However, speaking valves (such as Passy-Muir valves) can be used for some patients to allow speech. Our speech therapists evaluate each patient and work with the care team to determine if speaking valves are appropriate and safe.

Potential complications include trach site infection, tube obstruction from mucus plugs, accidental decannulation (tube coming out), bleeding, tracheal stenosis (narrowing), and aspiration. Our skilled nursing teams are trained to prevent these complications through meticulous care, monitoring, and adherence to evidence-based protocols. Emergency equipment and trained staff are available 24/7 to respond to any airway emergencies.

We follow strict infection control protocols including sterile suctioning techniques, daily trach site cleaning with appropriate solutions, regular dressing changes, hand hygiene, proper humidification, oral care, and monitoring for signs of infection. Our staff are trained in infection prevention and we maintain low infection rates through vigilant clinical practices.

Yes, many tracheostomies are temporary and can be removed (decannulation) once the underlying condition improves and the patient can breathe and protect their airway independently. Our teams work with pulmonologists and ENT specialists to assess readiness for decannulation through weaning trials, swallowing evaluations, and respiratory assessments. The decannulation process is carefully planned and monitored.

Accidental decannulation is a medical emergency. Our nursing staff are trained to immediately respond by keeping the airway open, attempting to reinsert the tube if the tract is mature, or calling for emergency assistance. Every trach patient has an emergency kit at bedside with backup tubes and supplies. We conduct regular emergency drills to ensure staff readiness.

Yes, many family caregivers successfully learn tracheostomy care for home management. Our nursing and respiratory therapy teams provide comprehensive training on suctioning, trach care, tube changes, emergency procedures, and equipment use. We ensure families feel confident and competent before discharge and coordinate with home health agencies for continued support.

Medicare Part A typically covers skilled nursing facility care for tracheostomy patients who require daily skilled nursing or rehabilitation services following a qualifying hospital stay. Most private insurance plans also cover medically necessary skilled nursing care. Our admissions team works with families to verify coverage, explain benefits, and assist with authorization processes.

Contact our 24/7 admissions team by phone or through our website. We accept referrals from hospitals, physicians, case managers, and families. Our team will review medical records, verify insurance coverage, and coordinate a smooth transition from hospital to our skilled nursing facility. We can often admit patients within 24-48 hours of referral.