Pediatric tracheostomy decannulation protocol: evidence of content validation

Abstract

Purpose To develop and validate a decannulation protocol for chronically tracheostomized children aged 0-12 years. Methods This methodological study was conducted in four stages: (1) submission of the project to the research ethics committee, (2) systematic review of the literature, (3) preparation of the clinical protocol, and (4) evaluation of the quality of information with specialists. The preparation phase followed the recommendations of the Guide for the Construction of Assistance Protocols. The quality of the protocol was evaluated by eight pediatric specialists using the Appraisal of Guidelines Research and Evaluation (AGREE II). An acceptable suitability of the protocol was considered when there was a 78% or greater agreement among the specialists. Results Based on this systematic review, five recommendations were listed to compose the protocol for decannulating tracheostomy in children represented in a flowchart. The suitability of the protocol varied between 81.94 and 95.83%, with an overall assessment rate of 93.75%. All specialists recommended an appropriate protocol for use in healthcare services. Conclusion The decannulation protocol for chronic children is valid and adequate. Future research with randomized designs is recommended for this population to assess the impact of the use of the protocol and its cost-effectiveness for health services.