A chest x-ray is ordered to confirm tracheotomy tube position and evaluate for pneumothorax or pneumomediastinum. Elevate the head of the patient's bed 30 to 40 degrees immediately following the procedure and suction any bloody secretions. The tracheal tapes and cuff sutures should not be removed until the first tracheotomy tube change. Ideally, the first tube change should not be attempted until the tract has matured, which requires at least 7 to 10 days. If accidental decannulation occurs within the first 7 days of PDT, an oral ETT should be placed instead of attempting reinsertion of the tracheotomy tube through the stoma. Dislodgement of a tracheotomy tube that has been in place 2 weeks or longer can often be managed simply by replacing the tube through the mature tract. Humidification and frequent tracheal suctioning is recommended to prevent inspissation of secretions, which can result in mucous plugging and tracheotomy tube obstruction.