What Tube Is Used For Suctioning?

Suctioning is a vital area of respiratory care. It involves the removal of fluid and mucus from the respiratory tract through a tube or catheter inserted into the trachea or bronchial tree. Suctioning helps to clear the air passage and prevent respiratory complications. The choice of tube for suctioning depends on the patient's age, condition, and location of the secretion. In this article, we will discuss the types of tubes used for suctioning.

General Principles of Suctioning

Before we discuss the types of tubes used for suctioning, let us first review the general principles of suctioning. The primary goal of suctioning is to remove secretions from the airway and prevent the risk of aspiration. The procedure should be performed only when it is necessary, and the patient's oxygen saturation levels should be monitored before, during, and after the suctioning. The use of sterile technique and appropriate catheter size is crucial to minimize the risk of complications.

Types of Tubes for Suctioning

There are different types of tubes used for suctioning, depending on the location of secretion and the patient''s age.

Nasopharyngeal and Oropharyngeal Suctioning

Nasopharyngeal and oropharyngeal suctioning tubes are used to remove secretions from the nose, mouth, and throat. These tubes have a soft and flexible tip, which makes them suitable for use in delicate areas. They are commonly used in children who cannot cough up mucus or swallow the secretions. The tubes are available in different sizes, and the appropriate size should be selected based on the patient''s age and condition.

Endotracheal Suctioning

Endotracheal suctioning involves the removal of secretions from the trachea using a suctioning tube inserted through an endotracheal tube (ETT). This type of suctioning is common in mechanically ventilated patients. The ETT is a plastic tube that is inserted through the mouth or nose into the trachea to provide artificial ventilation. The suctioning tube is inserted through the ETT to remove mucus and fluids from the airway.

The size of the suctioning tube for endotracheal suctioning depends on the size of the ETT. The suctioning catheter should be selected based on the inner diameter of the ETT. The most common sizes of suctioning tubes used for endotracheal suctioning are 12 French (Fr) and 14 Fr. The appropriate size of the suctioning tube should be selected based on the patient''s age, condition, and size of the ETT.

Tracheostomy Suctioning

Tracheostomy suctioning involves the removal of secretions from the trachea through a tracheostomy tube. A tracheostomy tube is a surgically inserted tube in the neck that provides artificial ventilation and access to the trachea. The suctioning catheter is inserted through the tracheostomy tube to remove mucus and fluids from the air passage.

The size of the suctioning tube for tracheostomy suctioning depends on the size of the tracheostomy tube. The suctioning catheter should be selected based on the outer diameter of the tracheostomy tube. The most common sizes of suctioning tubes used for tracheostomy suctioning are 8 Fr, 10 Fr, and 12 Fr. The appropriate size of the suctioning tube should be selected based on the patient''s age, condition, and size of the tracheostomy tube.

Closed Suctioning

Closed suctioning is a type of suctioning used in mechanically ventilated patients with an endotracheal or tracheostomy tube. The closed suctioning system consists of a pre-connected catheter and a sterile sleeve. The sleeve covers the catheter and prevents contamination of the suctioning system. The catheter is inserted through the ETT or tracheostomy tube and suctioned to remove secretions.

The size of the suctioning catheter for closed suctioning depends on the size of the ETT or tracheostomy tube. The most common sizes of closed suctioning catheters are 12 Fr and 14 Fr. The appropriate size of the suctioning catheter should be selected based on the patient''s age, condition, and size of the ETT or tracheostomy tube.

Conclusion

Suctioning is a crucial area of respiratory care that involves the removal of secretions from the airway. The choice of tube for suctioning depends on the location of secretion and the patient''s age and condition. The correct size of the suctioning tube or catheter should be selected to minimize the risk of complications. Healthcare professionals should follow the general principles of suctioning and use appropriate sterile technique to ensure patient safety.