The Use of Speaking Valves in Children With Tracheostomy Tubes
Respiratory Care
Zabih, W., Holler, T., et al. (2017).
Respiratory Care, 62(12), 1594-1601.
This systematic review examines the benefits of one-way tracheostomy speaking valves in children and adolescents (ages 0-18) with tracheostomy tube placement.
<div>Overall, there is strong evidence (Class I and Class 2 Evidence) to "support the use of one-way speaking valves in the pediatric population" (p. 1599). However, most of the evidence examined tolerance of speaking valves rather than the effect of a speaking valve on the verbal communication skills of children. Further research from well-designed studies is warranted to determine the effects of speaking valves on communication for this population.</div>
