Page 353 - CHHA Binder 2.3.20

4/11/2019

Suctioning

 Suctioning removes not only secretions but also oxygen. Before
suctioning, assure optimal oxygenation:

• Encourage patient to take several deep breaths
• If patient has oxygen ordered, patient should be hyperoxygenated
• If patient has a ventilator, use hyperoxygenation button
• Be sure settings of oxygen/ventilator are returned to normal

 If patient has a cuffed tracheostomy tube, there is no need to deflate
prior to suctioning.

 Liquefying secretions:
• Do not routinely instill normal saline drops pre-suctioning (only
with a doctor’s order for 3 – 5 mL sterile saline, as needed)

13

Suctioning

 Usual size of a tracheostomy catheter is 12 French which
is no more than half the internal diameter of the trach
tube.

 Insert the catheter only the length of the tracheostomy
tube plus about ¼ inch.

 Do not apply suction while inserting the catheter.

14

7