Tracheostomy Care and Ventilation
Supporting individuals with a tracheostomy or mechanical ventilation requires specialist knowledge and practical skill. This course is designed for healthcare assistants, support workers, and nursing staff who work with adults or children requiring tracheostomy care or ventilatory support in clinical or home settings.
This training focuses on safe, confident care delivery—ensuring staff understand the purpose and function of tracheostomies and ventilation, how to carry out routine care, and how to recognise and respond to complications.
The course also covers infection prevention, emergency procedures, and how to maintain comfort and dignity for individuals living with long-term or short-term airway management needs.
What You Will Learn
By the end of this Tracheostomy Care and Ventilation course, you will be able to:
- Understand the purpose of a tracheostomy and indications for its use.
- Identify key components of tracheostomy tubes and ventilation systems.
- Recognise different types of tracheostomy and ventilation setups, including cuffed and uncuffed tubes, humidification systems, and suction equipment.
- Carry out routine tracheostomy care, including stoma cleaning, inner tube changes, and dressing changes.
- Perform safe and effective suctioning in line with clinical guidelines.
- Monitor for signs of infection or complications such as obstruction, dislodgement, or bleeding.
- Understand the principles of mechanical ventilation, including invasive and non-invasive support.
- Support service users on ventilators, recognising alarms and basic troubleshooting steps.
- Respond appropriately to emergency situations, including accidental decannulation and blocked airway scenarios.
- Maintain infection prevention and control standards at all times.
- Communicate effectively with patients, families, and multidisciplinary teams.
- Promote dignity, safety, and comfort when supporting individuals with tracheostomies or ventilation needs.
Certification
On successful completion, candidates will receive a certificate of achievement in Tracheostomy Care and Ventilation, confirming their competence in supporting individuals with complex airway and respiratory care needs.
