This is a 3-phase, prospective controlled cohort study .~The first pre-implementation phase will include assessment of healthcare utilization costs of tracheostomy patients currently and nursing perspective on current caregiver tracheostomy knowledge.~The second protocol phase will include assessment of the necessity, acceptability, feasibility, fidelity, safety and effectiveness of a standardized pathway and assessment of the caregiver's activation.~The third post-implementation phase will involve assessment of post-implementation tracheostomy-related healthcare utilization costs and nursing perspective on caregiver tracheostomy knowledge.
The purpose of this study is to identify and establish a safe and effective tracheostomy teaching protocol for caregivers. Results of this study will help in the development of a discharge protocol that allows for caregiver confidence and activation in tracheostomy care for patients.