Swallowing & Communication (Adults)

Tammy was a patient who became critically ill and required a tracheostomy to help her wean from mechanical ventilation. She was sedated for several weeks and slowly recovered to the point where she was awake enough to attempt to communicate. There are various strategies that can be used in this situation, including ACV, attempts to get the cuff deflated and the use of a speaking valve (with cuff deflation trials).

Working with the doctors, nurses and allied health staff who were caring for Tammy, our Tracheostomy Multidisciplinary Team initiated cuff deflation trials and use of a speaking valve whilst Tammy was still dependent on mechanical ventilatory support.

See and hear the results in the video below, and see what it means to be able to communicate again.