A Shared Vision for Tracheostomy Care: How the ICN's Updated Framework Strengthens Collaboration

Area of Science:

• Nursing Science
• Healthcare Systems
• Patient Safety

Background:

• Tracheostomy care requires multidisciplinary collaboration across critical care, rehabilitation, and community settings.
• The International Council of Nurses' (ICN) 2025 definitions offer a framework for advancing tracheostomy care.
• Global health initiatives like the Global Tracheostomy Collaborative emphasize teamwork and quality improvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To frame tracheostomy care within the ICN's 2025 definitions of nursing.
• To highlight the role of nurses as system integrators in tracheostomy management.
• To promote equity, health literacy, and cultural safety in tracheostomy care.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of ICN definitions and global collaborative principles.
• Analysis of evidence supporting structured protocols and caregiver training.
• Case examples illustrating the continuum of tracheostomy care.

Main Results:

• The ICN framework supports nurses as autonomous practitioners and collaborative partners in tracheostomy care.
• Structured protocols, discharge planning, and caregiver training reduce complications and readmissions.
• Nurses drive innovation in resource-limited settings, adapting care to community needs.

Conclusions:

• Coordinated, culturally responsive systems of care are essential for tracheostomy safety and dignity.
• The ICN framework provides a shared language for interprofessional collaboration in tracheostomy care.
• Applying the ICN definitions promotes safer, more equitable outcomes for patients with tracheostomies.