A study to assess the effectiveness of the TRACHEA technique on communication among tracheostomy patients in selected hospital in Udupi district, Karnataka.

Tracheostomy patients often experience significant communication difficulties due to the loss of vocal function, which can lead to frustration, anxiety, and impaired interaction with caregivers. Effective communication is vital for ensuring patient safety, comfort, and quality of care. This study aims to assess the effectiveness of the ‘TRACHEA’ technique, an innovative communication strategy designed to enhance interaction between tracheostomy patients and healthcare providers.

This one-group pretest–posttest study will be conducted in the R7 and R9 wards of a tertiary hospital in Udupi district, Karnataka, from October 2025 to October 2026. A total of 57 patients meeting the inclusion criteria will be recruited through purposive sampling. Data will be collected using five tools:

1. Demographic proforma – patient background details.

2. Clinical proforma – patient disease condition details.

3. ’TRACHEA’ knowledge questionnaire. (self-developed)

4. ‘TRACHEA’ checklist.  (self-developed)

5. ’TRACHEA’ rubrics. (self-developed)

Data will be analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics (t-test, ANOVA, chi-square) with Jamovi software at 5% level of significance.

The study poses minimal risk but has the potential to benefit from improved communication, reduced anxiety, greater patient satisfaction, and safer, more patient-centred care for tracheostomy patients.