My mother is intubated in the intensive care unit and the team recommended a tracheostomy — what should we do?

Infectious Diseases and Clinical Microbiology, Otorhinolaryngology | Question #Tucz8w8u
Published on
August 2, 2025

When intubation has been prolonged and infection markers are rising, tracheostomy may be considered. Below are suggested questions to ask and which specialists to involve when making a decision.

User question

My mother is intubated in the intensive care unit and the team recommended a tracheostomy — what should we do?

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TanıTedavi answer

A tracheostomy may be suggested when prolonged respiratory support, problems related to ongoing endotracheal intubation, or secretion and oxygenation issues are present. The procedure can offer benefits (for example, sustained ventilatory support, easier secretion clearance and sometimes improved comfort) but also has potential risks (surgical complications, infection risk, airway issues). Because risks and benefits depend on the patient’s overall condition and infection status, the choice is generally made by the treating team together with the family. What you should do now: - Ask the intensive care team to explain clearly why the tracheostomy is recommended now, what specific goals they expect, and what measurable benefits they anticipate. - Ask about alternatives and what is likely to happen if the procedure is not performed, including timing considerations. - Given the rising infection markers (from about 90 to 240), request input from an infectious diseases/clinical microbiology specialist and ask to review culture and imaging results. - Find out who will perform the procedure (which surgical/service team) and who will be responsible for post-procedure care; ask about tracheostomy care, and needs for speech and swallowing support. - Request a family meeting to discuss risks, expected recovery, likely outcomes and alternatives; consider asking for a second opinion if you are uncertain. Urgent warnings: If your mother has sudden worsening, very high fever, fainting or altered consciousness, marked breathing difficulty, or uncontrolled bleeding, contact the ICU team or emergency services immediately. Supportive guidance (non-medical): Keep regular communication with the care team, write down your questions, ask for the care plan in writing, and request clear explanations of infection findings and lab results. Multidisciplinary review (for example: Intensive care, Infectious Diseases/Clinical Microbiology and the surgical team) is commonly used in these situations.

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