Percutaneous Tracheostomy

Course Description

The Percutaneous Tracheostomy Course is designed for healthcare professionals involved in critical care, anaesthesia, and respiratory medicine who need to perform or assist in percutaneous tracheostomies. This course offers a blend of theoretical knowledge, simulation-based practice, and hands-on experience with real-time ultrasound guidance, preparing clinicians to perform this essential bedside procedure safely and effectively.

Participants will gain a solid understanding of the indications, techniques, and potential complications of percutaneous tracheostomy, while also mastering the use of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) to aid in the procedure. Our expert faculty will provide in-depth guidance and real-time feedback, ensuring that attendees leave the course confident and skilled in this life-saving technique.

Course Objectives

• Understand the Basics: Learn the anatomy, indications, and contraindications of percutaneous tracheostomy.
• Ultrasound Guidance: Master the use of point-of-care ultrasound to assist in the procedure, improving safety and accuracy.
• Hands-On Practice: Gain practical experience with simulation-based training, followed by supervised practice on live models.
• Complication Management: Recognise and manage potential complications, including bleeding, misplacement, and airway emergencies.
• Building Confidence: Develop the technical skills and decision-making processes required to perform percutaneous tracheostomies competently in real-world settings.

Target Audience

This course is aimed at:

• Intensive care unit (ICU) clinicians
• Anaesthetists
• Respiratory physicians
• Surgeons
• Advanced critical care practitioners
• Other healthcare professionals involved in airway management

Course Format

The Percutaneous Tracheostomy Course follows a blended learning model with both theoretical and practical components, including:

1. Pre-Course Online Learning
   Before attending the in-person training, participants will complete an online module covering:
   • Anatomy of the trachea and surrounding structures
   • Indications for tracheostomy
   • Preparation for the procedure
   • Introduction to POCUS in airway management
2. In-Person Training Day
   A full-day, hands-on workshop that includes:
   • Morning Session: Theory and Anatomy
     • In-depth review of percutaneous tracheostomy techniques and equipment
     • Role of POCUS in tracheostomy procedures
     • Common complications and troubleshooting
   • Afternoon Session: Practical Skills Training
     • Simulation-Based Practice: Participants perform the procedure on high-fidelity mannequins with simulated pathologies, including real-time ultrasound guidance.
     • Live Models Practice: Practical training with human models to simulate real-life scenarios.
     • Real-Time Feedback: Expert instructors provide personalised feedback during each step of the procedure.
     • Complication Scenarios: Simulated emergency scenarios to practice complication management and critical decision-making.
3. Post-Course Portfolio Building
   Participants will be provided with a portfolio to document cases they perform after the course, which will contribute to their competence certification. Each percutaneous tracheostomy they perform should be recorded, with case studies reviewed by faculty as part of continued skill development.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Safely and confidently perform percutaneous tracheostomies using POCUS guidance.
• Identify appropriate candidates for the procedure based on clinical indications.
• Navigate the tracheostomy process from preparation to post-procedure care.
• Use ultrasound to confirm anatomy and guide needle insertion, reducing the risk of complications.
• Manage both common and complex complications associated with percutaneous tracheostomy.

Location

Courses are delivered at various locations in Reading, UK. Specific dates and locations will be provided upon registration.

Course Fees

The cost of the course includes all training materials, simulation practice, and post-course support. For detailed pricing, please visit our website or contact the course administrator.

How to Register

To register for the Percutaneous Tracheostomy Course, please visit the Complete POCUS Training website and select the course date that suits you. Early registration is recommended as spaces are limited.

This course provides essential training for clinicians seeking to enhance their skills in airway management using percutaneous tracheostomy techniques, with a focus on safety, precision, and patient care through ultrasound-guided practice.