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Tracheostomy care in the home
Béatrice Oberwaldner1, Ernst Eber
1Respiratory and Allergic Disease Division, Paediatric Department, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 30, A-8036 Graz, Austria. beatrice.oberwaldner@meduni-graz.at
Insights
Paediatric tracheostomy care lacks controlled studies, relying on bedside experience. Effective management involves tube care, stoma maintenance, child monitoring, and comprehensive family training for home care.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Medicine
- Surgical Care
- Respiratory Therapy
Background:
- Limited controlled studies exist for pediatric tracheostomy care.
- Current practices are largely based on clinical experience and trial-and-error.
- Established standards for pediatric tracheostomy management are needed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline essential components of pediatric tracheostomy care.
- To provide a framework for managing children with tracheostomies.
- To emphasize the importance of family training for home care.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing clinical practices and bedside experience.
- Description of key elements in tracheostomy tube management.
- Outline of stoma care, child care, and home environment preparation.
Main Results:
- Tracheostomy care encompasses tube changes, secretion management, humidification, and medication administration.
- Stoma care involves cleaning, protection, and dressing.
- Comprehensive child care includes monitoring, feeding, bathing, and clothing.
- Successful discharge requires home environment preparation and extensive caregiver training.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric tracheostomy care requires a multifaceted approach combining medical management and family education.
- Standardized protocols based on evidence are crucial for optimal outcomes.
- Empowering families through structured training is vital for long-term home care success.
Abstract:
There are hardly any controlled studies in paediatric tracheostomy care; instead, most established standards, procedures and details have been elaborated at the bedside by trial and error. Once the appropriate tube is chosen, tube care consists of tube change, fixation, management of secretions, humidification of inspired air and application of medications. The stoma requires cleaning, protection and dressing. Child care may be structured into monitoring, feeding, bathing and clothing. Preparing the home and family environment are important prerequisites for discharge from the hospital. Last but not least, the family of the child or other caregivers must undergo a structured and detailed training programme to become competent in long-term home care.
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