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The impact of paediatric tracheostomy on both patient and parent
C Hopkins1, S Whetstone, T Foster
1Evelina Children's Hosptial, London SE1 7EH, UK. clairehopkins@yahoo.com
Insights
Pediatric tracheostomy significantly impacts families, affecting quality of life and requiring better community support. This study highlights the need for improved pre-operative preparation and home nursing for tracheostomized children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Otolaryngology
- Child Health Services Research
- Quality of Life Studies
Background:
- Pediatric tracheostomy is a critical intervention for airway management in children.
- The procedure can profoundly affect the lives of patients and their families.
- Understanding these impacts is crucial for comprehensive care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effects of pediatric tracheostomy on patients and their families.
- To identify specific areas of quality of life impacted by the procedure.
- To assess the adequacy of current support systems for these families.
Main Methods:
- Structured interviews were conducted with caregivers of tracheostomized children.
- The Pediatric Tracheotomy Health Status Instrument was utilized.
- Data was collected during in-patient admissions for airway endoscopy over a 6-month period.
Main Results:
- 26 caregivers completed questionnaires; 27% of children were successfully decannulated.
- Caregivers reported adverse effects on sleep, relationships, social life, and work.
- Families had below-average incomes, and a shortfall in home nursing provision was noted.
Conclusions:
- Pediatric tracheostomy has extensive effects on patient and caregiver quality of life.
- There is a need for enhanced pre-operative preparation and community support.
- Improved home nursing and family support are essential for optimal outcomes.
Objective:
We set out to assess the impact of paediatric tracheostomy, performed in a central London hospital, on patients and their families.
Methods:
We conducted structured interviews with caregivers of tracheostomised children using the Pediatric Tracheotomy Health Status Instrument during all in-patient admissions for airway endoscopy over a 6-month period.
Results:
Completed questionnaires were received from 26 caregivers, 7 (27%) of whose children had been successfully decannulated. Carers reported adverse effects on all aspects of their quality of life, including sleep, relationships, social life and ability to work. The families included in the study had gross household incomes below the mean for SE London. There is a shortfall in the provision of home nursing when compared with the needs of the caregivers.
Conclusions:
Tracheostomy has wide ranging effects on the quality of life of both the patient and their caregivers. We identified the need for better pre-operative preparation where possible, and greater support for such families in the community.
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