Travelling with a Tracheostomy Patient: What to Prepare

Check with the doctor first

Before any trip, even a short one, confirm with the treating doctor that the patient is stable enough to travel and ask if there's anything specific to prepare for the mode of transport planned.

What to carry

• Spare tracheostomy tube and ties, in case of an emergency change
• Suction equipment, if the patient normally uses it, with a portable power source if needed
• A written summary of the patient's condition, tube type and care routine, in case you need to explain it to someone unfamiliar
• Contact details for the patient's treating doctor and local emergency services at the destination

During travel

Keep the tracheostomy site protected from dust, strong wind, or extreme temperature where possible, and monitor the patient more closely than usual during the journey.

Planning for emergencies

Know in advance where the nearest hospital is at your destination, and keep emergency contacts easily accessible, not buried in luggage.

When in doubt, delay

If the patient has had any recent complications or instability, it's reasonable to postpone non-essential travel until the doctor confirms it's safe.

How RUSHIVA can help

We can help prepare a care routine and checklist before a trip for patients receiving tracheostomy care. Send us an enquiry below to discuss your plans.