Nursing standard (Royal College of Nursing (Great Britain) : 1987)
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A tracheostomy is a surgical procedure that involves creating an opening and inserting a tube in the trachea to enable air transit from the external atmosphere to the lungs. The insertion of a tracheostomy is a common procedure used to wean patients from mechanical ventilation and to manage patients with upper respiratory tract complications. ⋯ This article outlines the indications, benefits and complications of tracheostomy insertion, as well as the various types of tracheostomy tube that may be used. It also explains the role of the nurse in caring for patients before, during and after tracheostomy insertion, including the management of tracheostomy-related complications and emergencies.