I had the opportunity to follow a patient through to surgery and watch a tracheostomy be put into place. A tracheostomy is a surgical procedure creating a hole in the neck and windpipe to allow for breathing through a tube. The tube is called a tracheostomy tube and it provides an alternative airway, bypassing the nose and mouth.

I learnt that a tracheostomy can be temporary or permanent and is used for many reasons, including managing long-term respiratory support, or facilitating secretion clearance. I was drawn to how sterile the procedure was, I understand that this is very important because of the risk of infection.

I found watching the procedure interesting and I was amazed at how the procedure was done. However, it was also unsettling to watch because of the invasive nature of the surgery and the vulnerability of the patient. Seeing an opening made directly into the airway was a reminder of how critical these procedures are. The sound of surgical instruments and the sight of blood, made the experience intense and emotionally challenging.