4.
In the event of a disconnection in the circuit, the EVR will not prevent the low
exhaled tidal/minute volume alarm from sounding.
5.
The EVR should be removed from the circuit after use of the Speech Cannula.
Warning: It is recommended that the EVR is removed from the patient
circuit during use of a Standard Cannula as it may add deadspace
depending on its location in the circuit. It can be left in place if approved
by a healthcare professional and can be tolerated by the patient
6. After removing the EVR from the circuit, return the low exhaled tidal/minute volume
setting to the appropriate level.
USE OF THE BLOM LOW PROFILE VALVE (LPV)
Intended Use
The LPV is designed to be used only in conjunction with Blom Tracheostomy Tubes. The
LPV is a normally closed one-way valve that is placed inside the Blom Tracheostomy Tube
and is intended to allow the tracheostomized, non-ventilator dependent patient, the ability
to speak. During inspiration, the valve opens allowing air to flow into the lungs. During
exhalation, the valve is closed and the airflow is redirected to the upper airways enabling
speech. The LPV should not be used in conjunction with mechanical ventilation, or with
patients whom have upper airway obstructions.
Blom LPV Directions for Use:
1.
The LPV is available in four sizes: #4, 6, 8, 10 and should only be used with the
equivalent size Blom Tracheostomy Tube.
2.
Assess the patient prior to insertion. Assessment should include - respiratory rate,
oxygenation, heart rate, breath sounds, work of breathing, airway patency, secretion
status, and patient's mental condition.
3.
Select the appropriate size LPV.
4.
Perform tracheal and oral suctioning (as required) prior to insertion of the LPV.
If using a Blom Fenestrated Cuffed Tracheostomy Tube:
5. Deflate the Tracheostomy Tube cuff and repeat suctioning as required
Note: Since the Blom Tracheostomy Tube is a fenestrated tube the need
for cuff deflation is not required; however the patient's work of breathing
may be increased if the cuff is left inflated.
6.
Remove the inner cannula (if present) and insert the LPV into the Tracheostomy
Tube. Insure that the LPV is securely connected to the Tracheostomy Tube.
7.
Observe and monitor the patient for adequate airflow and any change in vital signs.
If the patient develops respiratory distress, immediately remove the LPV and
reassess the patient for airway obstuction/patency.
8.
Oxygen and/or humidity may be added via a mask or trach collar. Medication
aerosols may also be delivered without removing the LPV.
9.
It is not necessary to remove the LPV for suctioning. An appropriately sized
suction catheter may be easily passed bi-directionally through the valve.
10. The LPV does not have a standard 15mm hub connector and therefore will not
attach to a ventilator circuit or manual resusucitator. A Standard or Subglottic
Suctioning Cannula of the correct size should be readily available in case the
use of a 15mm connector is needed.
11. After use, the LPV should be cleaned, air dried and stored in the supplied container.
The maximum recommended period of use for the LPV is 60 days. See Cleaning
Instructions.
USE OF THE BLOM DECANNULATION PLUG OR 15MM DECANNULATION CAP
Intended Use:
The red Decannulation Plug or green 15mm Decannulation Cap are designed to be used
only in conjunction with the Blom Tracheostomy Tubes. The Decannulation Plug or 15mm
Cap occludes the proximal end of the Blom Tracheostomy Tube, requiring the patient to
breathe through the fenestration (if present), around the outer diameter of the tracheostomy
tube through the upper respiratory tract. The Decannulation Plug or 15mm Cap are intended
to assist in the weaning process of ventilator dependent tracheostomized patients and to
determine eligibility of a patient for tracheostomy tube
If using a Blom Fenestrated Cuffed Tracheostomy Tube:
Warning: Prior to inserting the Decannulation Plug make sure the fenestration is
not occluded, that the cuff is completely deflated and that there is a sufficient airway
for adequate air movement. If the patient has difficulty breathing, immediately
remove the Decannulation Plug, insert a Standard Cannula or Subglottic Suctioning
Cannula and verify airway patency.
Warning: Do Not Attempt to ventilate the patient with the Fenestrated Inner Cannula
in place. If it is not possible to remove the Fenestrated Cannula from the Tracheostomy
Tube, do not try to forcibly remove it. Both the Fenestrated Cannula and Tracheostomy
Tube should be removed together and replaced with a new Tracheostomy Tube and
inner cannula.
Blom Decannulation Plug or 15mm Cap Directions for Use:
1.
Establish the patency of the patient's upper airway tract. The patient's airway should
be cleared by coughing and/or suctioning before using the Decannulation Plug or
15mm Cap.
If using a Blom Fenestrated Cuffed Tracheostomy Tube:
2.
Completely deflate the cuff of the Tracheostomy Tube
3.
When using the red Decannulation Plug, remove the inner cannula. Attach the
Decannulation Plug to the Tracheostomy Tube. Verify that is has been securely
fastened.
4.
When using the green 15mm Decannulation Cap, place the 15mm Cap onto the end of
the inner cannula. The 15mm Cap is not intended for use with the Blom Speech
Cannula.
5.
The maximum recommended period of use for the Decannulation Plug and 15mm Cap is
24 hours or according to local established protocols.
CLEANING INSTRUCTIONS
These cleaning instructions only apply to the Blom Speech Cannula and the Blom LPV.
1.
During use, the Blom Speech Cannula and the Blom LPV should be rinsed with warm
water or saline solution immediately after removal from the Tracheostomy Tube and
allowed to thoroughly air dry before further use. Do not apply heat to dry.
Storage:
1.
When removing for storage, swish the Speech Cannula or the LPV in pure, fragrance-
free soap and warm (not hot) water.
2.
Rinse the Speech Cannula or LPV thoroughly in warm running water.
3.
Allow to air dry thoroughly before placing in the storage container. Do not apply heat to
dry.
4.
DO NOT USE HOT WATER, PEROXIDE, BLEACH, VINEGAR, ALCOHOL, BRUSHES OR
COTTON SWAPS TO CLEAN THE SPEECH CANNULA OR THE LPV.
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removal.