Tracheostomy with emphasis on perioperative nursing care

Abstract

Tracheostomy is an important life-saving procedure performed by many surgical specialties.  The indications for tracheostomy are vast, most commonly for the relief of upper airway obstruction, uncontrolled tracheobroncheal secretions, obstructive sleep apnea and prolonged intubation due to respiratory insufficiency. Placement of a tracheostomy tube allows long term airway access and allows for removal of translaryngeal endotracheal tube (ETT tube). A brief discussion of anatomy and physiology, tracheostomy types, complications and post operative nursing care will be described.