INDICATIONS:

Obstruction of the airway (secondary to secretions, blood, and/or any other substance) in a patient currently being assisted by an inserted airway such as an endotracheal tube, supraglottic airway or tracheostomy tube.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

• None.

PROCEDURE

• Ensure the suction device is operable.
• Pre-oxygenate the patient.
• While maintaining aseptic technique, attach the suction catheter to the suction unit.
• If applicable, remove ventilation device from the airway.
• Insert the sterile end of the suction catheter into the tube without suction.
• Insert to proper depth so that suction catheter does not extend past the tube / device.
• Once the desired depth is met, apply suction by occluding the port of the suction catheter and slowly remove the catheter from the tube using a twisting motion.
• Suctioning duration should not exceed 10 seconds, using lowest pressure that effectively removes secretions.
• Apply suction the way out.
• Saline flush may be used to help loosen secretions and facilitate suctioning.
• Re-attach the ventilation device to the patient.