New Device Makes Tracheostomy Dressing Changes Easier and More Comfortable.

PURPOSE This study compared the use of the tracheostomy dressing applicator (TDA) to the standard procedure for tracheostomy dressing changes. DESIGN A prospective quasi-experimental study was performed. METHODS Nineteen patients and 117 nurses answered a survey after changing the tracheostomy dressing with the TDA and using standard procedure. FINDINGS Nurses rated the TDA easier to use in patients with average-sized necks and more favorably on observed discomfort in patients with average-sized and larger necks. Patients rated less discomfort with the TDA compared with the standard method of dressing change. CONCLUSION The TDA is an effective device to facilitate tracheostomy dressing changes, possibly improving compliance and decreasing skin complications. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The TDA is a useful device that can improve efficiency of dressing changes with the potential to save time and improve outcomes.