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Multidisciplinary guidelines for the management of paediatric tracheostomy emergencies
C Doherty1, R Neal2, C English3
1Department of Paediatric Anaesthesia, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK.
Insights
Paediatric tracheostomy emergencies require structured guidelines for effective management. This study developed an emergency algorithm and resources to reduce the frequency and severity of these critical events in children.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Respiratory Medicine
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Tracheostomies in children are crucial for long-term ventilatory support, secretion management, and upper airway obstruction.
- The majority of pediatric tracheostomies are performed in children under 4 years of age.
- Managing tracheostomies in children presents unique challenges compared to adults, particularly in emergency situations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To address the need for structured guidelines in pediatric tracheostomy emergencies.
- To develop a bespoke emergency management algorithm and supporting resources.
- To reduce the frequency, nature, and severity of pediatric tracheostomy emergencies through enhanced preparation and education.
Main Methods:
- Development of a bespoke emergency management algorithm.
- Creation of supporting educational resources for multidisciplinary teams, parents, and carers.
- Focus on structured guidelines for clinical decision-making during emergencies.
Main Results:
- A structured emergency management algorithm was developed.
- Supporting resources were created to aid clinical decision-making.
- The initiative aims to improve preparedness and education for pediatric tracheostomy emergencies.
Conclusions:
- Structured guidelines and a dedicated algorithm are essential for managing pediatric tracheostomy emergencies.
- Education and preparation are key to reducing the incidence and impact of these emergencies.
- The developed resources support multidisciplinary teams, parents, and patients in tracheostomy care.
Abstract:
Temporary and permanent tracheostomies are required in children to manage actual or anticipated long-term ventilatory support, to aid secretion management or to manage fixed upper airway obstruction. Tracheostomies may be required from the first few moments of life, with the majority performed in children < 4 years of age. Although similarities with adult tracheostomies are apparent, there are key differences when managing the routine and emergency care of children with tracheostomies. The National Tracheostomy Safety Project identified the need for structured guidelines to aid multidisciplinary clinical decision making during paediatric tracheostomy emergencies. These guidelines describe the development of a bespoke emergency management algorithm and supporting resources. Our aim is to reduce the frequency, nature and severity of paediatric tracheostomy emergencies through preparation and education of staff, parents, carers and patients.
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