Breathe Easy: Equipping Care Teams for Complex Airway Success 2026

Event Description:  In-person lecture-based course given by experts across multiple disciplines including otolaryngology, respiratory therapy, and anesthesiology.  This course is designed to provide an overview of complex airways including tracheostomy and laryngectomy.  Topics will include key differences between tracheostomy and laryngectomy, precautions for each, cares, supplies, and emergency management.  

We plan to offer CME and ASHA credit for this course, we are still in the planning and approval stages (as of 4/1/26).

Learning Objectives:  

1. Differentiate between tracheostomy and laryngectomy anatomy and function 
2. Identify common equipment and supplies used in daily care 
3. Perform routine tracheostomy and laryngectomy care safely 
4. Recognize and respond to airway emergencies 
5. Apply effective communication strategies for individuals with altered airways 
6. Describe discharge planning and DME considerations across care settings