Sleep

Children with a tracheostomy should go home with an apnea monitor/oximeter. It is important that the child be placed on the apnea monitor/oximeter when activity is not being supervised. Many parents use an intercom device for added monitoring. You may also consider purchasing a wrist or foot rattle to hear a signal from your child for your attention.

When sleeping, your child needs humidity from the trach collar. Humidity is important because it helps to thin the secretions and to keep the airway moist. Since it may be necessary to suction your child when he or she is asleep; it is important to check on him or her periodically. Your child may also need to be suctioned more frequently if he or she has a cold.