Notes
- Place Pt on pulse oximeter during and after procedure.
- Adjust the FiO2 setting on the mechanical ventilator to 1.0.
Manual ventilation is no longer recommended, because it has been shown to be ineffective for providing delivered FiO2 of 1.0.- Ensure that suction is turned on no higher than 150 mm Hg; suctioning pressure should be set as low as possible while effectively clearing secretions.
- Stand with your nondominant hand toward Pt’s head.
- Insert suction catheter just far enough to stimulate a cough reflex (shallow).
- Apply intermittent suction while withdrawing catheter and rotating 360° for no longer than 10–15 sec to prevent hypoxia.
- Repeat until Pt’s airway is clear.
- Suction oropharynx after suctioning of airway is complete.
- Hyperoxygenate Pt for at least 1 min especially in Pts who are hypoxemic; do not hyperventilate unless ordered.
- Monitor Pt for adverse reactions/complications.
- Rinse catheter in basin with sterile saline in between suction attempts (apply suction while holding tip in saline).
- Rinse suction tubing when done, and discard soiled supplies.