Evaluation of a tracheostomy education programme for speech–language therapists

Abstract

BackgroundTracheostomy management is considered an area of advanced practice for speech–language therapists (SLTs) internationally. Infrequent exposure and limited access to specialist SLTs are barriers to competency development.AimsTo evaluate the benefits of postgraduate tracheostomy education programme for SLTs working with children and adults.Methods & ProceduresA total of 35 SLTs participated in the programme, which included a 1‐day tracheostomy simulation‐based workshop. Before the workshop, SLTs took an online knowledge quiz and then completed a theory package. The workshop consisted of part‐task skill learning and simulated scenarios. Scenarios were video recorded for delayed independent appraisal of participant performance. Manual skills were judged as (1) completed successfully, (2) completed inadequately/needed assistance or (3) lost opportunity. Core non‐medical skills required when managing a crisis situation and overall performance were scored using an adapted Ottawa Global Rating Scale (GRS). Feedback from participants was collected and self‐perceived confidence rated prior, immediately post and 4 months post‐workshop.Outcomes & ResultsSLTs successfully performed 94% of manual tasks. Most SLTs (29 of 35) scored > 5 of 7 on all elements of the adapted Ottawa GRS. Workshop feedback was positive with significant increases in confidence ratings post‐workshop and maintained at 4 months.Conclusions & ImplicationsPostgraduate tracheostomy education, using a flipped‐classroom approach and low‐ and high‐fidelity simulation, is an effective way to increase knowledge, confidence and manual skill performance in SLTs across patient populations. Simulation is a well‐received method of learning.

Speech and language therapy students' perception of learning through the incorporation of clinical simulation workshops: a mixed-methods study

“…These assertions are linked to an increase in safety and preparation for clinical visits. This finding is in agreement with studies performed in SLT in which students after participating in workshops with simulated patients, reported decreased anxiety and increased confidence 4,7,13 .…”

“…The research focuses mainly on simulated patients' experiences, allowing technical, non-technical, and clinical decision-making skills 3 . Among the potential benefits of including simulation are the following: (a) Strengthen the abilities to address communicative and speech disorders 4,8 , assess auditory function 9 , evaluate swallowing 10 , manage dysphagia 11,12 and tracheostomy management 13 ; (b) Create a safe learning environment, correcting errors without adverse patient consequences, and allowing teachers to focus more on the students than on the patients 4 , (c) Provide specific and manageable experiences 3 , preparing the student for future clinical experiences 14,15 , and (d) Support safety and confidence to face real and difficult clinical situations 14,15 . Other recent simulation studies in SLT have included simulated parents in the context of early hearing detection 16 , evaluation of preterm infant feeding 17 , and interprofessional education scenarios between nutrition and dietetics, and speech and language therapy students 18 .…”

Video‐Based Tracheostomy Care Education for Medical Students

“…The average improvement in knowledge and confidence ratings in medical students mirrors results from prior studies in different caretaker populations that used longer, more complicated simulation models. 2,[12][13][14]16,23,24 As expected, undergraduate medical student knowledge of and confidence with tracheostomy care are low. Otolaryngology is rarely included as a preclerkship module, and it is a poorly visualized specialty within early medical education.…”

“…The average improvement in knowledge and confidence ratings in medical students mirrors results from prior studies in different caretaker populations that used longer, more complicated simulation models. 2 , 12 - 14 , 16 , 23 , 24 …”

Speech and language therapists’ management of ventilated patients and patients with tracheostomy in Israel

“…Allowing access to comprehensive training and direct clinical supervision might enable SLTs to advocate for the importance of their involvement in this vulnerable population. Simulation training has been found to be successful in skills development (Miles et al., 2020) and does not rely on work‐based training alone. This is particularly relevant for reducing unnecessary exposure; for example, during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.…”