Tracheostomy
Tracheostomy training helps nurses care safely for a person with a tracheostomy, recognise complications early and respond appropriately, in line with UK best practice. Delivered on-site by a registered nurse, with practical work wherever the subject allows.
Why this training matters
A UK national review found that in half of all airway-related deaths and cases of brain damage in critical care, the airway problem was caused by a tracheostomy complication, and ward-based tracheostomy care was judged good in only 39% of cases.
Source: NCEPOD, On the Right Trach? · 2014
About the course
Care safely for a person with a tracheostomy
By the end of the course, delegates will:
- Know never to undertake tracheostomy care unsupervised until formally signed off as competent
- Understand that the ’whoosh’ (auscultatory) test is banned and must never be used
- Know to confirm cuff pressure at least once every shift, maintained at or below 25 cmH2O
- Know the correct change frequency for double-lumen and single-lumen tubes
- Understand that redressing and inner tube cleaning are sterile, non-touch techniques
- Know that two people should be present for routine tube changes and dressing changes
- Understand that suctioning should only be performed when clinically indicated
- Know that cough suppressants and secretion-control medicines must only be given if specifically prescribed
- Recognise when to escalate immediately: bleeding, breathing difficulty, or a tube that won’t go back in
- Know to document every tube check, feed, medication, flush and clinical concern in full
What you’ll cover
Full course content
Everything the course covers, exactly as our trainers deliver it:
Understanding Tracheostomy
- What is a tracheostomy?
- Reasons for a tracheostomy
- Temporary or permanent
- Effects on speech
- Living with a tracheostomy
Complications
- Early complications
- Late complications
- Urgent airway assessment
- NTSP emergency algorithms
- Escalating early
Legislation & Registered Nurse Responsibility
- Health and Safety at Work Act 1974
- CQC Regulation 12 & 18
- Mental Capacity Act 2005
- RIDDOR 2013
- NMC Code (2018)
- Registered nurse responsibility
Tracheostomy Site Care: Equipment
- Indications
- Understanding tube design
- Essential bedside equipment
- Emergency airway box
Tracheostomy Site Care: Risk Management
- Obstruction
- Displacement
- Haemorrhage
- The ’whoosh’ test
- Cuff pressure checks
Cleaning the Cannula & Stoma: When & How Often
- When to change the tube
- Double-lumen (cuffed) tubes
- Single-lumen tubes
- Who performs the aseptic part
Cleaning the Cannula & Stoma: Procedure
- Redressing the stoma site
- Cleaning the inner tube
- Tube won’t insert
- Excessive bleeding
- When to call 999
Managing Excessive Saliva
- Why secretions build up
- Endotracheal suctioning
- Suctioning only when indicated
- Suctioning before eating
Treating Thick Mucus
- Why humidification matters
- Equipment options
- Best practice tips
- Cough suppressants
- Preventing aspiration
Nebulisers
- What is a nebuliser?
- When nebulisers are used
- Cleaning a nebuliser
- Attaching a nebuliser
- Only use prescribed medicine
Please note: successful completion of this course certifies that delegates have demonstrated an appropriate level of competency within a training-room environment only. This is not the same as being competent to perform the procedure on a person. Competency must still be demonstrated in the working environment and signed off by a relevant and competent person in line with your company policies.
Keep exploring
Related clinical courses
These subjects sit naturally alongside this course, and we can combine courses into one visit.
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Where is the training delivered?
All of our training is delivered on-site at your service, anywhere in the UK. We come to you, so there are no travel costs or venue hire for your team. We can also deliver the theory virtually over Zoom; the practical parts stay on-site.
How long is the Tracheostomy course?
It runs as a half day (3 hours) course, delivered in one visit unless stated otherwise.
How many delegates can attend?
Up to 12 delegates per session. We keep practical groups smaller so everyone gets hands-on time.
Is there a practical element?
Yes, delegates practise the techniques hands-on during the course, guided by the trainer. Please note that completion certifies competency within a training-room environment only; competency must still be signed off in the workplace in line with your company policies.
Do delegates receive a certificate?
Yes, every delegate receives a certificate on completion. We recommend refreshing every two years.
How much does the course cost?
We price every course on application, based on your dates, location and delegate numbers. Use the contact buttons below. We reply quickly with a quote.
Can we combine courses into one visit?
Yes. Many clients build a full training day from shorter courses, and we can deliver several subjects in one visit. Just tell us what your team needs.
Do you only train care providers?
No. This course suits care & nursing homes, complex home care, special schools & SEN settings, children’s complex care, hospitals & clinics, hospices. If your sector isn’t listed, ask and we’ll tailor the course to your setting.
Book this course
We bring Tracheostomy training to your service
Delivered on-site at your service, nationwide, with pricing on application. Tell us your dates and delegate numbers and we’ll reply quickly with a quote.
Part of our clinical training range. Also explore mandatory training and first aid courses.