Respiratory Therapist

Answer: C-A noncompliant, end stage COPD patient who has had multiple respiratory failures and intubations over the past year would benefit from the insertion of a tracheostomy tube during next hospitalization.

A tracheostomy would lessen airway trauma, be easier to maintain, and be helpful during the weaning process. After the patient is weaned from mechanical ventilation, a trach button can be placed on the tube for easy access at next respiratory failure.