Using a suction catheter with centimeter increments on it, insert the suction catheter into the endotracheal tube until the centimeter markings on both the endotracheal tube and catheter align.
Insert the suction catheter no further than an additional 1 cm.
Method 2 (Endotracheal Tubes)
Combine the length of the endotracheal tube and any adapter being used, and add an additional 1 cm.
Document the determined length at the bedside or on the plan of care, according to facility policy.
Method 3 (Endotracheal and Tracheostomy Tubes)
Using a spare endotracheal or tracheostomy tube of the same size as being used for the patient, insert the suction catheter to the end of the tube.
Note the length of catheter used to reach the end of the tube.
Document the determined length at the bedside or on the plan of care. Alternatively, mark the distance on the suction catheter with permanent ink or tape and place the catheter at the bedside for reference. Refer to facility policy.
Closed Suction System (Endotracheal and Tracheostomy Tubes)
Combine the length of the endotracheal or tracheostomy tube and any adapter being used, and add an additional 1 cm.
Advance the catheter until the appropriate length can be seen through the catheter sheath or window.
Document the depth of the catheter at the bedside or on the plan of care.
Source: Adapted from Hahn, M. (2010). 10 considerations for endotracheal suctioning. The Journal for Respiratory Care Practitioners, 23(7), 32-33; Republished with permission of American Association of Critical Care Nurses from Pate, M., & Zapata, T. (2002). Ask the experts: How deeply should I go when I suction an endotracheal or tracheostomy tube?Critical Care Nurse, 22(2), 130-131, permission conveyed through Copyright Clearance Center, Inc.