Some people have suction caths,diapers,chux,extra meds,extra change of clothes,extra formula,extra gtubes in addtion to the extra trach(one sixe larger,one the same size,and one smaller) and the ambubag.
In our go bags its usually just the trachs,Ambubag,trach ties,obturators,saline,and sterile h2o.
When we go out we bring the go bag plus a bigger bag with all the extra goodies.
But I don't consider that a go bag.
When your pt goes to the ER do you include clothes,meds,extra gtubes,and portable suction machines with you(assuming you are able to go to the ER).
It never occured to me to give meds while the pt is waiting in the ER to get admitted.
I don't give the pt their scheduled meds because I'm thinking maybe they might want to run tests in the ER.
NOC nursing is responsible for stocking the go bag where I work, but I know that it contains: two Shiley trachs (one same, one smaller), trach ties, tape, GT replacement kit, H2O, diapers, change of clothes, vent tube, formula, PRN meds, suction machine, extra catheters (10fr, 12fr), NS ampules, and a copy of the POC.
I really sont know the rationale for the larger size trach. When I first started back in 2005 that's what I was told to have on hand in the go bag.I was also told at the time back up vents didn't need to be charged 24/7 because you could "burn out the battery". If the battery was charged up,you could unplug it until it needed to be fully charged again.As far as using Shiley trachs as back up for Bivona trachs,I was told it doesn't matter because as long as its the same size and diameter,you still are maintaining a patent and intact airway. Also,some insurance companies have stopped paying for back up Bivona trachs because they are very expensive.
What do you all mean you don't check it? What if something were missing/borrowed and wasn't returned?[/quote']
My patient is not a complicated case. I am sure it would be much different if he had a trach and was vented, but as it stands, he doesn't require a fully stocked medical bag as described here.
This is how ALL go bags should be stocked. You need to check these bags q shift and you need to make sure you bring extra trach supplies, extra feeding supplies, extra cath supplies and extra gbuttons/tubes. You just never know what the ER has in stock. I cannot fathom not checking this. Emergencies happen when you least expect them.
KelRN215, BSN, RN
1 Article; 7,349 Posts
I had the same thought. I can't think of any scenario where you'd need a LARGER trach.