Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery, 148(1), 6-20.
This is a clinical consensus statement on the care and management of tracheostomy in adults and children. The document applies to "physicians, nurses, and other stakeholders" (p. 6) working with patients in postoperative care, home care and emergency care. Although a literature search was performed, all findings were consensus-based and "stated as opinions or suggestions, not as recommendations" (p. 7).
American Academy of Otolaryngology—Head and Neck Surgery Foundation
<div>For individuals with a tracheostomy, a speaking valve may be recommended in patients who are medically stable in order to facilitate improved speech and swallowing. The treatment plan of patients with tracheostomy should be based on the results of a communication assessment which considers the possible recommendation of a speaking valve.</div>
<div>"A communication assessment should begin prior to the procedure when nonemergent tracheostomy is planned" (p. 10).</div>
