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Summary

The Tracheostomy Guidelines were developed by an expert multidisciplinary group based on available evidence and expert consensus. The guidelines recommend the establishment of multidisciplinary tracheostomy review teams to coordinate care of patients with a tracheostomy throughout their admission and specific guidance for:

• System of care
• Maintaining a patent airway
• Swallowing
• Oral care
• Facilitation of  communication
• Weaning to decannulation
• Infection prevention
• Complications and emergencies
• Transfer of care. 

Background

Monitoring and analysis of NSW clinical incident data, undertaken by CEC, identified important areas where tracheostomy care could be improved. The Intensive Care Coordination and Monitoring Unit (ICCMU) were tasked to develop evidence based Tracheostomy Guidelines.

The Guidelines and clinical resource package were released online in 2013. Implementation teams have been established in all Local Health Districts and Special Health Networks with guidance and support from ICCMU and Respiratory Network.

Partnerships

• Clinical Excellence Commission
• NSW Local Health Districts and Special Health Networks

Evaluation

Outcome measures have been established to assess the impact of the guidelines and effectiveness of the state-wide implementation approach.

Related Initiatives

• Whole of Hospital

Further Details

• Care of Adult Patients in Acute Care Facilities with a Tracheostomy - Clinical Practice Guideline
• NSW Health Incident management 
• Clinical Excellence Commission - Patient Safety
• Intensive Care Coordination and Monitoring Unit
• ACI Respiratory Network