Taking Charge: The RT's Role in Tracheostomy Management [2026]
Airway management is a major component of the respiratory therapist’s role in the mechanically ventilated patient and many of our patients require long-term artificial airway support. Though the placement of a tracheostomy may be a common procedure, many questions surround best practice for safe and successful maintenance of the airway. This presentation, focused on both adult and pediatric patient populations, will discus the indications for tracheostomy placement, selection criteria for the type of airway utilized, factors involved in tracheostomy management, challenges faced by both patients and respiratory therapists, and the respiratory therapist’s vital role in the multidisciplinary approach to managing patients with tracheostomies.
To access the post-course quiz, you must watch the entire intro video. The course content you will be tested on is available as a PDF in the Resources section or Materials tab
Approved for 1.00 CRCE Hours.
SEMINAR OBJECTIVES
Discuss the respiratory therapist's role in the management of tracheostomies
Discuss selection criteria for tracheostomy types based on patient need, clinical indication, and availability
Identify indications for tracheostomy in the adult and pediatric populations
Discuss challenges encountered by patients and respiratory therapists in the home, acute care setting, and long-term care setting
Identify factors involved in tracheostomy management (as an aside, this would include suctioning, attachments, emergencies, etc.)