Final answer:
Clinical manifestations of a trachea-innominate artery fistula in a tracheostomy patient include unusual pulsatile bleeding, shortness of breath, wheezing or stridor, hoarseness, pain with swallowing, and a bloody cough.
Step-by-step explanation:
Indicators of Trachea-Innominate Artery Fistula
A trachea-innominate artery fistula is a rare but life-threatening complication that can occur in patients with a tracheostomy. Healthcare professionals should be attentive to various clinical manifestations that could suggest the development of this condition. Potential indicators include unusual bleeding around the tracheostomy site, often presenting as pulsatile bleeding, which can be massive and life-threatening. Other signs to watch for include shortness of breath, wheezes or stridor, hoarseness, pain with swallowing, and a cough that may be attended by expectoration of blood. An immediate consultation with a vascular surgeon is imperative upon suspicion of a trachea-innominate artery fistula, and emergency management is critical to prevent exsanguination and ensure patient survival.