Caring for Patients with Tracheostomy & Ventilator Dependency

• •Review the components to various tracheostomy tubes available and their functions


• •Discuss the decision making process for placement of a tracheostomy tube and the advantages/disadvantages to short– and long–term placement


• •Review basic daily nursing cares necessary for maintaining a tracheostomy


• •Explain the assessment, safety precautions, and utilization of speaking valves


• •Discuss assessment and treatment of swallowing and the application of a speaking valve to minimize aspiration risks and maximize oral communication including bedside screening vs. formal assessment


• •Develop a plan of care and establish professional responsibilities across a multidisciplinary team to manage safe swallowing and maintain verbal communication

Develop a comprehensive management plan for adults living with acute & long–term tracheostomy

As medical technology and intervention evolves, more patients are faced with temporary and long–term tracheostomy/ventilation as a part of their recovery. The very presence of a tracheostomy tube may elicit visceral reaction to secretion management and dehumanize the patient who is unable to exercise their decision making capacity, orally communicate their needs, and interact socially with staff or family. Practitioners in acute hospitals, transitional rehabilitation units, skilled long–term settings, and homecare arenas are challenged to not only understand the basic functionality of a tracheostomy tube, but complete daily cares, assist their patients with swallowing and oral communication, and even train non-medical care providers. Management of the tracheostomized patient is often assumed to be complex. This misconception may become a barrier for placement in an environment most conducive to overall rehabilitation; to foster social closeness with staff, friends and family; and ultimately result in prolonging the weaning process.

This course will outline and compare the basic components of a tracheostomy tube, decision making surrounding the most appropriate type of tube to use for various populations, and the risks/benefits of placement. Through review of daily cares, the assessment and placement of a speaking valve, and dysphagia characteristics for this population, course participants will build the skills and confidence necessary to develop a comprehensive management plan. Attendees of this seminar will leave with a solid foundation of general knowledge, critical thinking algorithms, and an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of their specialty when faced with tracheostomized patients.