Introduction: This project aimed to standardize and improve the emergency tracheostomy "go-bag" provided by our institution and to increase "go-bag" compliance, supply organization, and emergency preparedness and confidence among caregivers of tracheostomy-dependent children.
Method: We provided caregivers with a new trifold "go-bag," containing four zippered pockets. Diagram-based supply checklists were placed in each "go-bag" to assist with supply organization and supply checks performed by the clinical team. Caregiver questionnaires were administered before and after "go-bag" distribution to assess the impact of the practice change.
Results: Between July 1, 2020 and February 28, 2021, 43% (n = 30) of tracheostomy-dependent children followed by the Department of Otolaryngology received a new "go-bag." Overall, "go-bag" compliance, supply organization, and caregiver confidence related to providing care at home and intervening in an emergency improved from baseline. Caregivers reported overwhelmingly positive feedback regarding the new "go-bag" design and utility.
Discussion: These findings support the use of standardized, user-friendly tracheostomy "go-bags" provided by health care institutions and the performance of routine "go-bag" supply checks to ensure patient safety and caregiver preparedness.
Keywords: Tracheostomy; children; emergency; go-bag; safety.
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