Suction Machines

Suction machines are used to help clear secretions. Depending on where the problem area is, different catheters may be used. If the suction is to be used to clear oral (mouth) secretions, a Yankauer catheter will be ordered. If the secretions are tracheal (neck) then the appropriate sized catheter will be ordered.

As a general guideline, suctioning should be kept to a minimum and the time either in the mouth or in the trachea should also be limited to a few seconds. You have to remember that the machine is also removing secretions, air and oxygen at the same time.

Finally, you should use as clean a technique as possible. Infection caused by suctioning can be very serious and all steps possible should be used to avoid contaminating the patient. If you notice a change in color or odor of the secretions notify the physician.