Tracheostomy in the acute setting: patient experience and information needs.
OBJECTIVE
The placement of a tracheostomy tube is a common hospital procedure used to clear secretions or bypass upper airway obstruction. However, little is known about patients' experiences of tracheostomy or the adequacy of the information provided to them.


METHODS
This pilot qualitative study used semistructured interviews with 8 patients to gain a deeper understanding of their experiences. They were recruited from and interviewed in a large teaching hospital in the South of England.


RESULTS
Four main themes were identified: physical sensations, understanding, information, and experiences after removal of the tracheostomy tube.


CONCLUSIONS
This research suggests that the experience of tracheostomy is a complex mix of physical sensations and emotions. Despite being a relatively routine procedure for clinicians, it can be very distressing to patients both during and after removal. Information needs to be more comprehensive, and it should be tailored to suit individual patient needs.
Sherlock
Zoë V
ZV
Speech and Language Therapy Department, Southampton General Hospital, Southampton, Hampshire SO16 6YD, UK. zoe.sherlock@suht.swest.nhs.uk
Wilson
Janet A
JA
Exley
Catherine
C