Pediatric and Neonatal Tracheostomy Caregiver Education with Phased Simulation to Increase Competency and Enhance Coping

•Organized caregiver education is an essential part of discharge planning for the tracheostomy-dependent pediatric patient.•Simulation complements bedside education to increase competency and decrease anxiety with new pediatric tracheostomy care.•Nurses should address the home caregiver's emotional response to pediatric tracheostomy during caregiver education and home planning.•Significant changes in comfort and perceived competence were noted for all skills following simulation training.•Phased caregiver education improved outcomes, including fewer on-unit tracheostomy changes and length of stay.