Evaluation of a tracheostomy education programme for speech-language therapists

Tracheostomy management is considered an area of advanced practice for speech-language therapists (SLTs) internationally. Infrequent exposure and limited access to specialist SLTs are barriers to competency development.

To evaluate the benefits of postgraduate tracheostomy education programme for SLTs working with children and adults.

A total of 35 SLTs participated in the programme, which included a 1-day tracheostomy simulation-based workshop. Before the workshop, SLTs took an online knowledge quiz and then completed a theory package. The workshop consisted of part-task skill learning and simulated scenarios. Scenarios were video recorded for delayed independent appraisal of participant performance. Manual skills were judged as (1) completed successfully, (2) completed inadequately/needed assistance or (3) lost opportunity. Core non-medical skills required when managing a crisis situation and overall performance were scored using an adapted Ottawa Global Rating Scale (GRS). Feedback from participants was collected and self-perceived confidence rated prior, immediately post and 4 months post-workshop.

SLTs successfully performed 94% of manual tasks. Most SLTs (29 of 35) scored > 5 of 7 on all elements of the adapted Ottawa GRS. Workshop feedback was positive with significant increases in confidence ratings post-workshop and maintained at 4 months.

Postgraduate tracheostomy education, using a flipped-classroom approach and low- and high-fidelity simulation, is an effective way to increase knowledge, confidence and manual skill performance in SLTs across patient populations. Simulation is a well-received method of learning.