Course Aims

To provide underpinning knowledge associated with best practice for providing tracheostomy care. To provide a simulated practical experience in a controlled environment to assist the development of competent tracheostomy care skills. To raise awareness of the legal implications of the NMC and organisational policies regarding tracheostomy care. To promote the safety and well-being of all patients who have a tracheostomy in situ.

Learning Outcomes

• Discuss legal and professional responsibilities associated with performing.
• Tracheostomy care within local and national guidance.
• Follow procedures for gaining consent and correct documentation.
• Describe anatomy and physiology of the respiratory system.
• Understand the need to manage health and safety risk.
• Identify and discuss the range of tracheostomy tubes, relevant accessory equipment and contents of the emergency kit.
• Identify and discuss aspects of daily care and patient considerations.
• Demonstrate practical ability in performing inner cannula and dressing changes including correct procedures for minimising infection.
• Demonstrate correct procedure for tube changes (nurses only).
• Demonstrate correct procedure for performing suction.
• Identify potential problems and emergency situations, describing how to prevent them and what necessary interventions are required should they occur.