Tina..
Hi, my name is Annette Hanna. I am 38 yrs old and have been on a vent for
over 4 years due to weak lung muscles caused by post polio syndrome.
I understand your concern as to whether or not your son should be trach
especially when he can't verbalize his opinion to you and the doctors due
to both age and disability. But believe me, the vent and trach will
probably make a remarkable difference in your son SATs. When I am having
problems breathing without the vent my SATs are extremely low...but with
the vent I have more energy and SATs are high.
The trach is a scarey thing when contemplating the issue, but there is
little pain except for the initial surgical procedure. Even that pain is
minor and the healing time for most is quick. Like Henry wrote, it will
take some training. Most doctors, nurses, and repiratory therapists are
excellent in the training of trach care.
When I was hospitalized they trained both me and boyfriend in trach care.
This can definetly minimize the cost of in home nursing care.
Once you catch on to the care needed for the trach and vent, you may see
that vent can enhance an indivuals quality of life. It isn't a death
sentence but a maximizer for some people's lives.
If you have any questions or concerns...feel free to email me at any time.
Sincerely,
Annette Hanna
nete1(AT)midwest.net