Can a support worker perform suctioning?

Support workers can be trained and assessed as competent to perform oropharyngeal suctioning under a registered nurse's clinical oversight. This is a recognised High Intensity support under the NDIS. Our nurses provide this training, assess competency and provide written sign-off. The nurse remains clinically responsible and is the escalation point for any complications.

What happens in an airway emergency at home?

Every participant we support with a tracheostomy has a documented emergency airway protocol. This covers signs of tube displacement or obstruction, immediate actions for support workers, when and how to call 000, and how to contact our nursing team. We conduct regular refresher training with all support workers involved in the participant's care.

Nursing

NDIS Tracheostomy Care & Support in Queensland

Tracheostomy management, suctioning and non-invasive ventilation support, with documented emergency airway protocols.

A tracheostomy requires skilled, consistent nursing management to remain safe, comfortable and functional. For NDIS participants managing a tracheostomy at home, having the right clinical support is not just about convenience. It is essential for safety. First Priority Care's registered nurses provide comprehensive tracheostomy care in your home across Queensland.

What Our Tracheostomy Care Includes

Tracheostomy tube care: cleaning, dressing changes and site assessment
Inner cannula changes: routine cleaning or disposal and replacement
Oral and nasopharyngeal suctioning: secretion clearance for participants with reduced cough effectiveness
Tracheostomy tube changes: where clinically appropriate and per specialist guidance
Non-invasive ventilator management: CPAP/BiPAP setup, mask fitting and management
Emergency airway protocols: clear action plans for decannulation or tube obstruction
Communication support for non-verbal participants with tracheostomies
Weaning support under specialist direction
Support worker and family carer training in suctioning technique and emergency protocols
Hospital liaison and documentation for specialist reviews

Who Is This Service For?

Participants with spinal cord injury (particularly high cervical injury) who are vent-dependent or have weak cough
Participants with acquired brain injury, stroke or neuromuscular conditions affecting breathing
Participants with upper airway conditions requiring tracheostomy for airway protection
Participants recently decannulated who require ongoing monitoring and airway support

NDIS Funding

Tracheostomy care and suctioning are among the highest-complexity High Intensity Daily Activity supports under the NDIS, funded under Core Supports (Assistance with Daily Life: High Intensity). Ventilator supplies and equipment may be separately funded through Capital Supports.

Areas We Serve

Brisbane (North and South)
Logan
Ipswich
Gold Coast
Redlands

Frequently Asked Questions

Support coordinator? Refer a participant directly. We respond within 4 business hours.

Refer a participant

Ready when you are

Let's build a care plan that works for you.

Speak with our care team about your NDIS plan, your goals, and how we can help.

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