Save 25% On Your First Autoship Order

Day
:
:
Online since 2002 |   +1 866-316-0162

Articles and News

Humidification to Tracheostomy via HME (Heat/Moisture Exchanger)

Humidification to Tracheostomy via HME (Heat/Moisture Exchanger)
Laura Castricone, CRT

A heat/ moisture exchanger also known as an HME is a tiny cap that fits over the opening to the trach tube and has a sponge or absorbent material inside. How it works to moisturize the airway is very simple. When you exhale thru the HME, it captures your exhaled heat and moisture and on your next breath, it delivers that back to your airway. This way of delivering moisture is very efficient and portable. HME’S are disposable and need no cleaning. They are appropriate for patients who can have their trach opening covered and can still breathe (for some, anything that covers the opening to the trach can obstruct breathing). It is appropriate for patients who do not have copious secretions (mucus). It is recommended that this be ordered by a physician and that you be trialed on it in a controlled setting before you use it at home. If it is used and the patient cannot tolerate it, you can simply remove it and use large volume humidification is lieu of the HME.

Advantages of Heat/ Moisture Exchanger

  • Disposable (throw away daily or more frequently)
  • Portable
  • No water needed
  • No electricity needed
  • No cleaning needed
  • Tolerated by most trach patients
  • Allows patient to be more independent
  • No noise

Limitations of Heat/ Moisture Exchanger

  • Cannot use if you have a lot of mucus
  • May make breathing more difficult or increase shortness of breath
  • May not be indicated due to low tidal volumes when breathing

 

All You Need To Know About Tracheostomy

 

 


Author Profile: Laura Castricone, Respiratory Therapist

Laura Castricone (Certified Respiratory Therapist)

My name is Laura Castricone and I am a Certified Respiratory Therapist. I have been practicing in the state of Connecticut since 1992. I have worked in several aspects of respiratory care including sleep medicine, critical care, rehab, and home care. I earned my respiratory certification at Quinnipiac University in Hamden, CT. Prior to becoming an RT, I attended the University of Connecticut pursuing a degree in English but left Uconn in my junior year to work with my father in the restaurant business. I stayed with him for over a dozen years. An education, by the way, that can never be bought! Once I married and had children, the restaurant business no longer fit my lifestyle. When my children were one and two years old, I decided to go back to school and that is where my career in respiratory care began. This career has been very rewarding and I have been blessed to meet some extraordinary people along the way. I grew up in Waterbury, CT, and now live in Litchfield County, CT with my husband and our crazy Jack Russell terrier, Hendrix. My hobbies include antiquing, gardening, writing plays, and painting miniature paintings.

 

Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics and text were created solely for informational purposes. Our content should never be used for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Content shared on our websites is not meant to be used as a substitute for advice from a certified medical professional. Reliance on the information provided on our website as a basis for patient treatment is solely at your own risk. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.

 


HPFY Laura Castricone, CRT

Laura Castricone, CRT

LinkedIn Profile My name is Laura Castricone and I am a Certified Respiratory Therapist. I have been practicing in the state of Connecticut since 1992. I have worked in several aspects of respiratory ...

Continue reading

Trending Articles

How To Increase Iron Levels Quickly

HPFY Staff Writer

It’s a question that must have puzzled you like many others. Iron is essential in hemoglobin production and its inadequate levels can negatively impact your health. Dive into this informative article to explore top iron-rich foods that can help you fight iron deficiency.

10 Best Coccyx Cushions for Tailbone Pain

HPFY Staff Writer

If you're like most people, you spend about 8 to 10 hours sitting every day. However unhealthy, it is part of life for many, and can cause tailbone pain. Coccyx cushions can help alleviate this pain. Click to read more and find the perfect coccyx cushion for your tailbone pain.

5+ Best Adult Diapers for Fecal Incontinence

HPFY Staff Writer

Dealing with fecal incontinence can be challenging, but you're not alone. Read this article and navigate through discreet and effective solutions that help you manage fecal incontinence and let you live life on your terms with confidence and comfort.

Top 5 Best Reviewed Nebulizers of 2024

HPFY Staff Writer

Need an effective and affordable nebulizer? Look no further, in this article we offer 5 of our best reviewed nebulizers that are loved by our customers. Click to read more and find the perfect nebulizer for all your respiratory needs.

10 Best Penis Pumps For Erectile Dysfunction

HPFY Staff Writer

For anyone dealing with erectile dysfunction, penis pumps serve as a great way to manage it. But with so many products available, determining the best one for your needs can be challenging. To assist you in refining your choices and making an informed decision, here are our top 10 options, recognized for their effectiveness and safety.