'A CRITICAL ANALYSIS REGARDING TRACHEOSTOMY CARE AMONG CARE GIVER: A CASE STUDY'

Abstract

Introduction: In critical care settings, tracheostomy care is crucial to the management of patients who need continuous mechanical ventilation. The need for this study on tracheostomy care is driven by the critical role that effective airway management plays in the recovery and long-term health of patients requiring this procedure. Tracheostomy patients often face significant challenges with a tracheostomy tube. For such patients to have the best results and reduce these dangers, appropriate treatment and supervision are crucial

Aims and objective: To critically analyze regarding tracheostomy care among care giver. To identify managing and maintaining tracheostomy tube by the caregiver. To assess and analyse in depth tracheostomy care given by care giver.

Methodology: The researcher used a qualitative approach for this study, employing the case study method as the chosen research design. The main focus of the research is on the variable of tracheostomy care. Data was gathered from a specific area in Pune city.  The sample included one caregiver of a patient with a tracheostomy tube from the selected region. For selecting this participant, a non-probability purposive sampling technique was applied.

Results: The study explored caregivers’ lived experiences in managing tracheostomy care by analyzing their verbatim responses, revealing key emotional and practical challenges. Initially, caregivers faced significant fear and anxiety, especially about complications like tube blockages. Later, caregivers adapted and gained confidence through experience. One-week hospital training was inadequate. Many struggled with emergency situations like tube dislodgement due to insufficient training. Despite this, caregivers maintained good infection control through regular cleaning. Caregivers need longer training, emergency management education to improve care and reduce stress.

Conclusion: Effective tracheostomy care requires caregiver training, emotional support, and clear communication to improve patient outcomes and caregiver well-being.