Community Tracheostomy and Complex Airway Specialist Practitioner

• Provide advanced specialist assessment, treatment, monitoring and review for adults living with tracheostomies and complex airway needs.
• Support safe and coordinated discharge from acute services into community settings.
• Deliver expert clinical advice and support to community teams, primary care, care homes, independent providers, patients and carers.
• Lead on education, competency development and workforce training relating to tracheostomy and airway management.
• Act as a specialist resource for patients requiring tracheostomy tube changes, airway reviews and management of airway-related complications.
• Contribute to service development, clinical governance, audit and quality improvement activities.
• Work collaboratively with ENT, Critical Care, Respiratory, Community Nursing, Rehabilitation Services, Primary Care and Urgent Community Response teams.
• Support the development of pathways, policies, standard operating procedures and clinical governance arrangements for the new service.

Essential

• Registered Nurse (NMC) or Registered Physiotherapist (HCPC).
• Degree or equivalent professional qualification.
• Evidence of relevant postgraduate study.
• Evidence of specialist training in tracheostomy care.
• Teaching and assessment qualification or willingness to undertake.

Desirable

• Master's level study or equivalent.
• Independent Prescribing qualification.
• Leadership or management qualification.
• Advanced Clinical Assessment qualification

Essential

• Significant post-registration experience at Band 6 or above.
• Experience caring for patients with tracheostomies and complex airway needs.
• Experience working in critical care, respiratory, ENT, or neurorehabilitation.
• Experience of discharge planning and multidisciplinary working.
• Evidence of service development and quality improvement.
• Experience undertaking tracheostomy tube changes.
• Audit and research experience.

Essential

• Advanced knowledge of tracheostomy management.
• Knowledge of NTSP guidance and best practice.
• Understanding of respiratory physiology and secretion management.
• Understanding of safeguarding, governance and risk management.
• Knowledge of community healthcare systems and integrated care pathways.
• Advanced clinical assessment skills.

Essential

• Able to document and record accurately in line with national standards
• Familiar with and able to operate necessary IT software packages e.g. MS Word, Excel, email
• High level of initiative
• Excellent interpersonal, communication and team working skills
• Car owner/driver