Tracheostomy “Go-Bag”

A Tracheostomy “Go-Bag” contains all supplies needed for an emergency tracheostomy tube change. Only the supplies needed for a tracheostomy tube change should be in the “Go-Bag.” You will need a stethoscope. Do not keep it in the “Go-Bag.” Keep it with your child at all times.

If you come to the hospital, bring your “Go Bag” with you. If you stay overnight in the hospital, we will give you a new “Go Bag” with all new supplies.

Exception: If your child has a custom tracheostomy tube, we will have to use the one from your supply. (Example: cuffed flex tend tubes and special length tracheostomy tubes)

To remember the emergency supplies you need when you travel with your child, think SOAP.

Suction-portable suction machine and suction catheters. Suction catheters should be in the “Go-Bag” Oxygen- portable oxygen tank Airway- Tracheostomy “Go-Bag” Stethoscope Self-inflating bag   Pulse Oximeter

The emergency tracheostomy tube is a plastic or PVC tracheostomy tube similar in length to the patient’s current tube. For neonatal and pediatric tracheostomy tubes, the emergency tube is usually a ½ size down by inner diameter. For adult tracheostomy tubes, this is usually a full size down by inner diameter.

When your child is discharged, the Respiratory Therapist will check the Tracheostomy “Go Bag” at the bedside for appropriate supplies. You will take this home.

The supplies located in each pocket of the Tracheostomy “Go Bag:”

	Pocket one: Pre-cut ties (holders) Dressing Humidi-vent (HME)
	Pocket two: Emergency Supplies Gauze Tape Emergency tracheostomy tube
	Pocket three: Blunt scissors Water soluble lubricant Syringe for cuffed tracheostomy tube Wedge (Tooth)
	Pocket four: Mask Suction catheters (2) Tracheostomy tube that matches the tube in your child’s neck

Emergency Supplies Needed to Travel with the Patient at All Times According to the S.O.A.P Acronym

Supply Checklist:

S: Suction equipment

• Suction machine

• Catheters for daily use

O: Oxygen

• Source and tubing

A: Airway

These supplies should be contained within the Emergency “Go Bag”:

• Securement device (2) (also called Trach ties)

• Dressing

• Humidi-vent (HME)

• Gauze

• Tape

• Emergency tracheostomy tube (1/2 size smaller)

• Blunt scissors

• Water soluble lubricant

• Luer-lock syringe (if the patient has a cuffed tracheostomy tube)

• Wedge (also called a tooth)

• Mask

• Suction catheters (2)

• Spare tracheostomy tube (same size as tube in child’s neck)

• Self-inflating bag (Ambu bag)

• Stethoscope

P: Pulse Oximeter

• Pulse ox machine

• Pulse ox probe (if necessary)

• Use checklist every day to assure all supplies are with the child at all times.

• Home care nursing staff needs to check supplies at the beginning of every shift.

• Replace any supplies used in an emergency.

Reviewed April 2024 by Amanda Manzi, DNP and Janessa Shainline, MSN, RN