Last week my Dad had a 14 hour op to remove cancer in his jaw and tongue. A flap was created. He has a peg line in and has a tracheotomy in place. They are planning on discharging him next week with the Tracheotomy and PEG line in situ.
The Hospital have informed us that the care of the tracheotomy is down to my Mum (and us the family) and are giving us training as to the care. We have been informed that we will not have the assistance of district nurses as they "don't really know a lot about them"
My Mum is terrified. Terrified of being responsible for this. She also works full time too.
Does anyone have any advice? Is there is some help I can access that I am missing? We did consider a private nurse but as its for a minimum of 4 months the costs will be very high.
Thank you all
Hello NPress, it sounds similar to what I have been through, I think I was in hospital for two weeks after my operation and was sent home with mine still in. From what I remember it did not cause any problems, they just feel uncomfortable. As long as he does not need suctioning things should be ok, normally they are left in to keep the hole (stoma ) open until it's healed up as they can close up in some cases. I don't think mine was left in there very long maybe a week or two and was removed in the hospital once they were happy. If i was your I would try it and if you don't feel comfortable then go back and see his consultant. Was there any one part of it you were worried about as i might be able to answer the question, My trachie was done about 8/9 years ago so maybe times have changed in patient care. Wishing you all the best and hope it all goes well, take care.
Chris x
Its sometimes not easy but its worth it !
