What is a speaking valve tracheostomy?
What is a speaking valve tracheostomy?
The speaking valve is a buttonlike piece of equipment that is placed on the outer hub of the tracheostomy tube. The one-way valve opens to let air in through the tracheostomy when the patient inspires. The valve closes during expiration, causing the air to follow the normal route of expiration and permitting speech.
What are the common speaking valves?
Open Position Speaking Valves Examples of open position valves include Shikani Speaking Valves, Shiley Phonate, Tracoe Phon Assist, and Montgomery Speaking Valve.
Can you talk with a trach tube?
One-way valves, called speaking valves, are placed onto your tracheostomy. Speaking valves allow air to enter through the tube and exit through your mouth and nose. This will allow you to make noises and speak more easily without needing to use your finger to block your trach each time you talk.
When can you use a speaking valve?
Patients may need to build up the strength and ability to use the valve, but most children will be able to use the speaking valve all day after a period of adjustment.
How often do you change Shiley trach?
The Shiley corporation recommends changing their poly- vinyl chloride (PVC) tracheostomy tubes every 29 days. Similarly, the Portex Blue Line package insert recommends 30 days as the maximum recommended period of use. The Portex Bivona tube package insert recommends it be used for up to 29 days.
What is a Shiley tracheostomy tube?
Shiley™ is a brand of tracheostomy tubes manufactured by Medtronic, formerly Covidien. These clinician-inspired tracheostomy devices incorporate an expanded range of sizes, soft material made with citrate-based plasticizer and transparent flanges that help promote patient comfort.
Why would someone need a speaking valve?
If your child is wearing a speaking valve during eating and drinking, it closes and stops air from escaping from the tracheostomy tube during swallowing. This allows subglottal pressure to build under the vocal cords and helps prevent microaspiration. It also assists your child to exhale after swallowing.
