What supplies will I need at home?
You will be sent home with
- 1 quart of saline solution
- Two 5mL syringes for use with saline solution
- 2 containers to store saline solution
- 1 package of gauze squares to use when coughing. Strong paper towels can also be used.
- 1 extra tracheostomy tube
- 2 tracheostomy dressings
- Tracheostomy ties or Velcro tube holder
- Tracheostomy cleaning set with a basin, brushes, cotton-tipped applicator, and pipe cleaners
- 2 suction catheters and tubing for your suction machine (if not supplied by your medical supply company)
What should I know before I leave the hospital?
A visiting nurse may be arranged to help you when you go home. Your nurse can help with your tracheostomy care and help you get more supplies when needed. Buy your supplies from a drugstore or medical supply company. Have a humidifier at home.