What is the correct method of suctioning?

Use a clean suction catheter when suctioning the patient. Whenever the suction catheter is to be reused, place the catheter in a container of distilled/sterile water and apply suction for approximately 30 seconds to clear secretions from the inside.

What type of technique is used for oral suctioning?

For oral suctioning, a hard-plastic tip with a handle called a Yankauer is usually used to suction secretions in the mouth. Oral suctioning is useful when your child is unable to remove secretions by coughing (for example, they have a weak cough) or they are drooling because they cannot swallow.

Does Yankauer suctioning require sterile technique?

Because the suctioning occurs deeper into the respiratory tract, there is increased risk of respiratory infection. As such the procedure must be sterile and thus observe principles of asepsis.

How often should Yankauer suction be changed?

Yankauer and suction tubing should be changed when they become soiled or discoloured and are unable to be cleaned or if they split. Filters should be changed every 2 months. The canister should remain in place for the entire time the patient requires suctioning.

When can you use a Yankauer?

This tool is used to suction oropharyngeal secretions in order to prevent aspiration. A Yankauer can also be used to clear operative sites during surgical procedures and its suctioned volume counted as blood loss during surgery.

What is an advantage of using a Yankauer suction device or tonsil tip to suction the patient’s mouth?

Surgeons and dentists rely on the Yankauer suction tip to clear the airway while simultaneously protecting the tissue of the airway or surrounding surgical area tissue. Though the Yankauer suction tip is reliable in a controlled setting, its use in emergency situations falls short.

Do you suction trachea before pharyngeal area?

When suctioning through a tracheostomy tube with an inner cannula, do not remove the cannula. The inner cannula remains in place during suctioning so that the outer cannula does not collect secretions. If oropharyngeal or nasal suctioning is required, complete after tracheal suctioning.