Tracheostomies are commonly performed in acute hospitals, driven by the need for airway protection in patients with poor neurological status and upper airway obstruction, as well as for weaning off mechanical ventilation. However, tracheostomized patients are often managed across multiple disciplines and care is not always within the core expertise of all involved healthcare professionals, leading to variations in practices and priorities. Additionally, competing medical or surgical issues often take precedence to tracheostomy management. The fragmentation of care provision and the niche skillsets required to manage tracheostomised patients highlight the necessity for foundational training among healthcare professionals. The recent hosting of Health Manpower Development Plan (HMDP) Visiting Expert, Ms Amanda Jane Thomas, has reinforced the importance of evidence-based practice in tracheostomy care.
Participants in this workshop will gain a solid foundation in tracheostomy indications, tube selection, post-procedure care and medical management after its creation. They will develop essential skills in identifying and responding to common complications, managing tracheostomy emergencies such as blocked tubes and accidental dislodgement, and optimizing secretion. Participants will also learn to assess patient readiness for tracheostomy weaning, from cuff deflation to restoring voice and swallowing functions. This workshop also features interactive skills stations to enhance learning and build confidence in tracheostomy management.
