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Tracheostomy and laryngectomy survey: do front-line emergency staff appreciate the difference?

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  24 April 2012

A Darr ,
K Dhanji  and
J Doshi
A Darr*
Affiliation:
Department of Respiratory Medicine, Solihull Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
K Dhanji
Affiliation:
Department of Respiratory Medicine, Solihull Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
J Doshi
Affiliation:
Department of Otolaryngology, Heartlands Hospital, Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
*
Address for correspondence: Dr Adnan Darr, Department of ENT, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Trust, Mindelsohn Way, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2WB, UK E-mail: [email protected]
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Abstract

Background:

In an emergency scenario, it is vital to appreciate the difference between a laryngectomy and a tracheostomy so that oxygen can be administered in an appropriate manner. This survey aimed to ascertain the level of emergency healthcare personnel's knowledge with regards to distinguishing between a tracheostomy and a laryngectomy patient, and the emergency management of such patients.

Methods:

Forty-four accident and emergency staff (28 doctors, nine nurses and seven paramedics) within one Foundation Trust were invited to complete a questionnaire to ascertain (1) their confidence at differentiating between a laryngectomy and tracheostomy stoma; (2) knowledge of the appropriate site for oxygen delivery if needed; and (3) overall level of training on this subject.

Results:

There were significant gaps in knowledge, particularly with regards to fundamental differences between a tracheostomy and a laryngectomy; less than 5 per cent were able to describe the anatomical difference. Only 41 per cent correctly identified the route of oxygen administration in laryngectomy patients.

Conclusion:

In this cohort of emergency staff, the fundamental difference between a laryngectomy and a tracheostomy was poorly understood. This lack of awareness of front-line emergency staff needs to be addressed in order to maximise patient safety.

Keywords

TracheostomyLaryngectomyEducationAirway Management
Type
Main Articles
Information
The Journal of Laryngology & Otology , Volume 126 , Issue 6 , June 2012 , pp. 605 - 608
Copyright
Copyright © JLO (1984) Limited 2012

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