Tracheal suctioning is a fundamental skill in respiratory care, used to remove secretions and maintain a clear airway. Performing it correctly helps prevent complications such as hypoxia, trauma, or infection. This guide provides nursing trainees with a clear, step-by-step approach for safe and effective suctioning.     1. Patient Assessment and Preparation  Before suctioning, assess the patient carefully: Look for signs of airway obstruction such as coughing, wheezing, increased respiratory rate, or visible secretions. Check oxygen saturation, heart rate, and level of consciousness. Explain the procedure to conscious patients to reduce anxiety. Prepare all necessary equipment: Sterile suction catheter (choose a size not exceeding half the inner diameter of the endotracheal or tracheostomy tube) Suction machine with appropriate pressure: 100–150 mmHg for adults, 80–100 mmHg for children, 60–80 mmHg for infants Sterile gloves, mask, protective drape Sterile saline (if lavage is needed) Wash hands thoroughly and don PPE to maintain a sterile technique. 2. Performing Suctioning Oxygenation (if indicated): Provide 100% oxygen for 30–60 seconds for patients at risk of desaturation. Insert the catheter gently: Advance the catheter without suction. Avoid forcing it against resistance. Insert only as deep as needed to reach the secretion (usually 2–3 cm beyond the end of the airway tube for adults). Apply suction while withdrawing: Cover the suction port with your thumb and withdraw slowly, rotating the catheter to remove secretions evenly. Limit each suction pass to 10–15 seconds. Monitor patient response: Watch oxygen saturation and vital signs continuously. Wait 30–60 seconds between passes to allow recovery. Repeat suctioning only if secretions persist.  3. Post-Procedure Care After suctioning: Ensure the patient is comfortable and breathing normally. Clear secretions from the catheter and tubing. Dispose of single-use items safely. Document the procedure: include the frequency, amount, color, and consistency of secretions, as well as patient tolerance and any complications. 4. Key Safety Tips Always maintain sterile technique to prevent infection. Monitor vital signs continuously during suctioning. Limit suction duration and number of passes to avoid trauma. Choose the correct catheter size to balance efficacy and patient safety. Provide oxygen as needed, especially if the patient shows desaturation. Avoid deep insertion to prevent airway injury. Tracheal suctioning is a routine yet delicate procedure. By following this step-by-step guide, nursing trainees can perform suctioning safely, minimize complications, and ensure patient comfort. Regular practice, supervision, and adherence to clinical guidelines help build competence and confidence in airway management.

Using the right catheter the right way helps patients breathe easily instead of struggling for air. Whether you're stocking a trauma bay, setting up a field hospital, or equipping military medics, knowing when and how to use each type of suction catheter keeps patients safe and airways clear.   Types of Suction Catheters and Key Features Standard Whistle Tip Suction Catheter The whistle tip catheter features a side hole (“whistle”) at the distal end. This extra opening: Prevents mucosal trauma if the tip lodges against tissue Allows continuous flow even during partial occlusion Offers moderate rigidity for easy navigation Whistle tip catheters are versatile in ICU and emergency use, particularly for patients with thick mucus or blood. They are compatible with standard suction devices and are robust enough for repeated field use. If a soldier suffered facial trauma with significant oral secretions. A whistle tip suction catheter allowed rapid airway clearance without damaging surrounding tissue. The dual side holes ensured the suction force was distributed, preventing excessive negative pressure injuries. Soft Suction Catheter The soft suction catheter is made from flexible, medical-grade PVC and is often DEHP-free. Its softness reduces trauma to delicate airways. These catheters are ideal for neonates, infants, and patients with sensitive tissues. Soft suction catheters excel in low-pressure suction scenarios. The transparency or frosted finish allows caregivers to visually confirm mucus removal. They are also effective in long-term care patients, especially when repeated suctioning is necessary. DeLee Suction Catheter The DeLee catheter boasts a wider bore and a curved tip ideal for deep nasopharyngeal suction: Angled tip follows natural anatomy Larger diameter clears thick secretions rapidly Two tiny side holes guard against excessive negative pressure When a full-term newborn arrives with mild meconium-stained amniotic fluid, immediate airway clearance is critical. Using a DeLee suction catheter, nurses can gently remove fluid from both the nose and mouth. Its narrow diameter and flared tip allow efficient suctioning while minimizing tissue injury, making it ideal for delicate neonatal airways. When to Choose Each Catheter Routine Oropharyngeal Clearance For conscious or semi-conscious patients with light to moderate secretions, the whistle tip catheter excels. Its combination of rigidity and side-hole backup keeps procedures quick and predictable. Fragile or Pediatric Airways When mucosal injury would carry serious consequences—neonates, chemotherapy patients, or anyone with coagulopathy—the soft suction catheter is the default. Its gentle material minimizes bleeding and prevents airway irritation. Thick, Copious Secretions Patients suffering from heart failure, ARDS, or drowning nearly always present tenacious fluid. The DeLee catheter's large bore and curved tip make it the fastest choice to restore patency, especially in austere or pre-hospital settings. How to Use Different Suction Catheters Proper technique is as important as choosing the right catheter. Incorrect usage can lead to airway trauma, infection, or ineffective suction. Step 1: Assess the Situation Always evaluate the patient first. Determine the airway obstruction type, patient age, and tissue sensitivity. For neonates, soft or DeLee catheters are preferable. For adults with thick secretions, whistle-tip catheters are more effective. Step 2: Choose the Right Catheter Size Catheter size matters. A catheter too large can injure tissue; too small may not clear the airway. Measure against patient anatomy: nasal catheter length should reach the glottis in neonates, while adult oral suction may require longer, more rigid catheters. Step 3: Prepare for Suctioning Lubricate if necessary, check suction pressure, and ensure the flange and dual side holes are in place. For example, Bever Medical's catheters have a flared tip to minimize puncture risk and side holes to prevent excessive suction injury. Step 4: Insert with Care Insert slowly, following anatomical pathways. Soft catheters should gently slide along the airway without force. DeLee catheters should follow the natural curve of the newborn’s oral and nasal passages. Whistle tip catheters should avoid direct tissue contact to prevent trauma. Step 5: Suction and Monitor Apply suction intermittently. Watch for changes in oxygen saturation and patient comfort. Clear mucus visually when using transparent catheters. Adjust depth or catheter type if initial suction is insufficient. Conclusion Selecting the right suction catheter—whether a whistle tip suction catheter, soft suction catheter, or DeLee catheter—depends on patient condition, secretion characteristics, and setting. By understanding each type's nuances and following meticulous technique, clinicians can clear airways swiftly, reduce complications, and improve patient outcomes. Plan to equip your facility with premium OEM suction catheters? Contact Bever Medical today to customize your options.

Whether you're clearing a blocked airway in the ER or managing secretions during transport, the right suction catheter can make all the difference between quick, effective suctioning and preventable complications. This article shares everything North American hospitals, EMS teams, and clinical buyers need to know: from the different types of soft suction catheters and key performance features to real-world usage tips that help ensure patient safety and smoother procedures. If your team is looking to upgrade equipment, streamline protocols, or simply avoid common suctioning mistakes, you're in the right place. Let's dive in and take the guesswork out of catheter selection—because better choices lead to better clinical results.    What Is a Soft Suction Catheter Soft suction catheters are flexible, atraumatic tubes designed to remove secretions from the oropharynx, trachea, and bronchi. Compared to rigid Yankauer tips, soft catheters minimize mucosal injury, patient discomfort, and vagal stimulation.     Clinical Rationale The use of soft suction catheters isn't just about comfort—it's about better outcomes. According to a 2022 clinical guideline from the American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC), soft suction catheters were shown to reduce cough-induced oxygen desaturation events by 35% compared to rigid tips (P < 0.05). This is a key benefit when working with patients who are already hypoxic or at risk of respiratory distress. Their flexibility allows clinicians to navigate tight or sensitive airways—such as those in patients with tracheostomy tubes—without causing injury. This translates into fewer complications, smoother procedures, and improved patient tolerance, particularly in high-acuity environments like the ICU, ER, or during field intubations by EMS providers.    Main Types of Soft Suction Catheters Understanding catheter design variations helps match the device to the clinical scenario. Catheter Type Description Flexible Soft PVC Non-toxic, DEHP-free PVC tube; atraumatic single distal eye; core device for routine suction. Whistle-Tip Side-hole near connector permits intermittent suction control; ideal for oral and nasal suction. Coude-Tip Angled distal tip for targeted endobronchial access; supports deep suctioning in one lung. Ring-Tip (Bronchial) Open circular distal tip with multiple relief eyes; protects tracheal mucosa in bronchoscopy. Control-Valve (Chimney Valve / Slide-Tex™) Integrated fingertip valve for on-demand suction modulation; prevents continuous mucosal collapse. Closed Inline Sheathed catheter for ventilated patients; allows multi-use without circuit disconnection.   What's the Maximum Insertion Depth Using the right insertion depth is critical to ensure effective airway suctioning while minimizing discomfort or injury. In adults, the maximum length of the suction catheter beyond the tongue should typically not exceed 16 cm. This helps avoid triggering the gag reflex or causing mucosal trauma. For older children, a safe range is 8–12 cm, depending on age and size. Neonates and pediatric patients require even more caution—limit insertion to 4–6 cm beyond the tongue, and always align with the appropriate French catheter size and patient age. Proper measurement not only improves secretion clearance but also reduces the risk of complications, ensuring safer and more efficient care in emergency or routine clinical settings.  Comparative Clinical Data A single-center trial (n = 120) comparing whistle-tip versus standard flexible PVC catheters found: Outcome Whistle-Tip Catheter Standard Flexible Catheter P-Value Mucosal trauma events (%) 2.5 9.2 < 0.01 Procedure-related desaturation 8.3 14.1 0.03 User satisfaction (5-point scale) 4.6 3.8 < 0.01 These data underscore the value of tip design in reducing complications.     Procurement and Practical Recommendations Stock size range 6 Fr–18 Fr to cover neonate through adult use. Prioritize whistle-tip and control-valve variants for emergency airway clearance kits. For ventilated or high-infection-risk patients, integrate closed inline catheters. Train clinicians on depth-mark usage and intermittent suction technique—apply suction only on withdrawal to prevent mucosal injury.  Conclusion Choosing the right soft suction catheter ensures every suction count while keeping patients safe and comfortable. From flexible PVC basics to whistle-tip and control-valve designs, knowing what fits your clinical needs can seriously reduce complications and improve outcomes. Whether you're stocking an EMS rig, an ICU cart, or an emergency airway kit, focusing on quality, proper sizing, and good technique will pay off every time. Purchase quality suctioning products at Bever Medical to save you cost and time. Last but not least, do not forget to train your team on correct insertion depth and suction methods is just as important as picking the right catheter.

When selecting suction catheters, healthcare providers must consider multiple factors—overlooking key details can delay patient care or even lead to medical complications. As a suction catheter manufacturer, Bever Medical has collected this guide to help your team choose the right catheter. It’s based on real-world scenarios we've encountered with our partners and hope to help you make informed and reliable decisions. Why Suction Catheter Selection Matters for Healthcare Providers? In critical care settings, suction catheters play a vital role in maintaining airway patency and preventing complications caused by fluid or mucus buildup. Whether in hospitals, emergency vehicles, or battlefield conditions, the right suction catheter can improve patient outcomes, reduce infection risk, and streamline airway management procedures. For healthcare professionals, choosing the correct type is a clinical decision with direct consequences. Types of Suction Catheters Flexible Suction Catheters Flexible suction catheters are the most commonly used. These thin, pliable tubes are ideal for accessing the trachea via endotracheal or tracheostomy tubes. They are available in various sizes and often include depth markings, control valves, and other options for safe and effective suctioning. Flexible suction catheter options are especially suitable for routine airway clearance. Rigid Suction Catheters Also known as Yankauer suction catheters, these rigid tools are best suited for oral suctioning and situations where stronger suction or stability is required. Their curved design allows for effective clearance without damaging soft tissue. Specialty Catheters Specialty options such as the DeLee suction catheter are designed for neonatal or obstetric care. They offer precision suctioning in delicate procedures, such as clearing an infant’s airway during delivery. What to Consider When Choosing a Catheter? When selecting a suction catheter, medical staff should evaluate: Patient condition: Neonatal, pediatric, or adult? Application site: Tracheal, oral, or nasopharyngeal? Suction needs: High-volume, precision, or routine? Compatibility: Does the catheter match the existing suction equipment? Sterility & packaging: Individually wrapped or bulk? It's wise to prepare the above things before paying money. OEM suction catheters can be tailored to meet facility-specific needs. Bever Medical provides FDA- and CE-certified options that can be customized in size, tip design, and material. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Selection Suctioning Products The following section contains some real feedback from our customers. By understanding the following content, you can better avoid and improve efficiency when negotiating the medical supplies business. 1. Ignoring Patient Needs It is a common mistake to use the same suction catheter across adult and elderly patients. Different age groups and medical conditions require different catheter sizes, and failure to match the catheter to the patient can lead to tissue trauma or ineffective suctioning.  2. Overlooking Material Safety Our partners told us they are deceived into buying suction catheters without verifying sterility or material composition, leading to patient infections. As a manufacturer, we suggest that EMS and military environments use OEM, pre-sterilized, latex-free catheters to ensure safety and compliance. 3. Pay More Attention to Cost instead of Quality  While price is always a consideration, cheap catheters are more likely to kink, collapse, or break during suctioning—especially in emergency care. Investing in high-quality OEM catheters with reinforced tips and robust construction pays off in reliability and patient safety. 4. Reusing Single-Use Catheters Reusing disposable suction catheters can lead to dangerous outcomes, including cross-contamination and airway blockages. These single-use devices are designed for one-time safety, and reusing them compromises both hygiene and function. Purchasing in OEM bulk packs allows healthcare providers to maintain safe practices without increasing per-unit costs. 5. Neglecting Environmental Demands Standard suction catheters may not hold up in harsh environments such as combat zones or extreme temperatures. Exposure to heat, cold, or rough handling can cause cracking, melting, or suction failure. Therefore, you must tell your supplier the use environment. Conclusion Choosing the correct suction catheter supports better patient care, minimizes risks, and increases procedural efficiency. With a wide range of catheter options available, healthcare providers must base selection on patient needs and treatment context. If you're planning to purchase durable and OEM suction catheters for critical care, you can consider Bever Medical. With CE and FDA approval, you can get customizable solutions for hospitals, EMS, and military teams. Welcome to contact us for bulk pricing and specs.

Suction catheters are indispensable tools in airway management, yet they are often perceived as simple, low-tech consumables. However, innovations in design and materials are transforming these humble devices into safer, more effective tools—especially as clinical expectations and patient comfort standards continue to rise.   Clinical Risks Behind Traditional Suctioning While routine, suctioning carries clinical risks if not properly designed or applied. Common complications include: Mucosal injury due to rough or rigid catheter tips Infections stemming from repeated open-system exposures Patient discomfort, coughing, or even laryngospasm due to excessive mechanical irritation These risks become more pronounced in ICU, pediatric, and long-term care environments, where repeated suctioning is necessary. Key Design Improvements for Safer, More Comfortable Suctioning Recent innovations in suction catheter design aim to minimize trauma and maximize efficiency. Let's explore the key improvements gaining traction in the global healthcare market:  1. Soft, Flexible Tips to Minimize Trauma Traditional catheters with hard or sharp-edged tips risk causing micro-tears in mucosal linings. The latest designs favor rounded, soft-tipped, or bent-tip catheters, which reduce contact pressure and adapt better to the upper airway's anatomical curve. This is especially useful for: Neonatal and pediatric use Patients with tracheostomies or sensitive mucosa Reducing coughing reflex during suction    2. Slanted or Bullet Tips for Precision Suction  Catheters now increasingly use slanted (angled) eyes or closed bullet tips, which: Reduce the chance of direct tissue contact Improve directional suction performance Prevent adherence to the tracheal wall, lowering the risk of blockage or injury This is an important advancement for ensuring consistent suction in critical settings like the OR and ICU.  3. Transparent Tubing for Better Visibility  By using clear, medical-grade PVC or TPU tubing, clinicians can visually monitor the type, color, and volume of secretions in real time. This assists in rapid diagnosis and assessment of pulmonary status, especially during emergency situations. Some versions even incorporate color-coded markings for length indication and insertion depth control. 4. Low-Friction Materials and Hydrophilic Coatings Material science is playing a growing role in patient comfort. Suction catheters can now be coated with hydrophilic or silicone-based lubricants, which reduce insertion friction significantly. This results in: Easier catheter advancement Less irritation and resistance Smoother suction cycles for patients who require frequent suctioning 5. Transition to Closed Suction Systems One of the most significant changes is the shift from open to closed suction systems, particularly in intensive care units. These systems: Allow suctioning without disconnecting the ventilator Maintain PEEP and oxygenation levels Reduce cross-contamination and exposure to airborne pathogens Improve efficiency in high-risk environments, including during pandemics Closed systems are becoming the standard of care in many countries and are especially vital for patients on long-term mechanical ventilation.  OEM Customization Trends: It's All About the End User As more manufacturers serve global OEM clients, customization has become a competitive edge. Hospitals and brands are now requesting suction catheters with: Connector compatibility across ventilator systems Patient-specific labeling or barcoding Color-coded options to avoid mix-ups in multi-patient settings Eco-friendly materials that meet sustainable procurement standards Some advanced versions also include integrated thumb control valves, anti-kink reinforcement, or double packaging for better sterility assurance. Final Thoughts Innovations in suction catheter design may not make headlines—but they make a meaningful difference at the bedside. Whether it's improving patient comfort or enhancing infection control, thoughtful engineering in small devices can have a major impact. If you are an OEM brand, distributor, or hospital system exploring your next-generation suction catheter lineup, now is the time to invest in performance-driven design. Contact BEVER Medical to learn more about our customization capabilities and the latest catheter models for global markets.

Spring is a season of renewal—but for anyone with allergies, it's also prime sneezing season. If you have asthma, the risks can be even higher. The good news? It's manageable. In this article, we'll share practical tips to help you breathe easier during allergy season.    Why Is Pollen More Dangerous for People With Asthma? Pollen is a fine powder released by trees, grasses, and weeds. When breathed in, it can trigger an IgE-mediated immune response in sensitive individuals. Your body responds to pollen as a destructive intruder, and the immune system releases chemicals like histamine. This causes aggravation within the nasal passages (allergic rhinitis) and can extend into the lungs, worsening asthma. Common Symptoms That Get Worse with Pollen Exposure Coughing Wheezing or shortness of breath Increased mucus production Chest tightness Need for more frequent use of rescue inhalers In severe cases, excess mucus may clog airways, requiring respiratory care products to clear the passages. 7 Practical Ways to Avoid Pollen Exposure Avoiding pollen is the best defense against allergy-related asthma symptoms. Here are seven simple yet effective ways to minimize exposure: 1. Use a Pollen Forecast App Check the pollen forecast daily. If the pollen count is high, limit outdoor activities or schedule them when pollen levels are lower, such as after rain. 2. Wear a Mask Outdoors A well-fitted mask (such as an N95) can block pollen particles. This is especially useful when walking, biking, or doing yard work. 3. Keep Windows Closed Open windows allow pollen into your home. Keep them shut during high pollen times—usually early morning and late afternoon. 4. Run an Air Purifier Indoors A HEPA-filter air purifier can trap airborne pollen, dust, and other allergens. Place it in your bedroom or any room where you spend a lot of time. 5. Shower and Change After Going Outside Pollen can stick to your hair, skin, and clothes. Shower and change your clothes immediately after returning indoors. 6. Clean Pets Regularly Pets can carry pollen on their fur. Wipe them down after walks and bathe them more often during pollen season. 7. Do Frequent Laundry Wash your clothes, bedding, and curtains often to remove trapped pollen. What to Do During an Asthma Flare-Up Even with precautions, pollen can still trigger an asthma attack. Here's how to respond: Use Emergency Medications Always have a rescue inhaler (like albuterol) on hand. Use it at the first sign of wheezing, tightness, or shortness of breath. When Is Airway Clearance Needed? In rare cases, asthma causes mucus plugs that block airflow. In such situations, clearing the airway becomes urgent. A suction catheter may be used in severe cases under medical guidance to remove thick mucus. This is not a first-line treatment but may be used when standard medication and coughing techniques fail. A disposable suction catheter offers a hygienic, single-use solution in hospital or emergency settings. Safer Alternatives at Home Saline nebulization helps loosen mucus. Cough training techniques, such as controlled coughing, can also aid in clearing the airways. Common Respiratory Care Products and Their Uses Several respiratory care products can assist with allergy-related asthma: 1. Suction Catheter Primarily used in hospital or field settings to remove airway blockages from thick secretions. 2. Nebulizer Delivers medication or saline as a mist for deeper lung absorption. Useful for both prevention and emergency relief. 3. Peak Flow Meter Helps monitor lung function. Regular use can detect early warning signs of asthma exacerbation. 4. Nasal Irrigation System Flushes allergens from the nasal passages, relieving congestion and reducing post-nasal drip that can worsen asthma. Hygiene Note Using a disposable suction catheter reduces the risk of infection, especially in multi-patient or emergency field use—making it ideal for military, emergency medical services, and outdoor field care.  Long-Term Management Strategies Avoiding triggers is just one part of controlling allergic asthma. Long-term management requires a multi-layered approach: Medications Inhaled corticosteroids reduce airway inflammation. Antihistamines help block allergic responses. Leukotriene modifiers (like montelukast) can treat both asthma and allergic rhinitis. Monitoring Use a peak flow meter to track your breathing and spot early warning signs.Get regular checkups to adjust your treatment plan. Lifestyle Adjustments Limit outdoor exercise during pollen season. Discuss immunotherapy options (allergy shots) with your doctor. Take charge of your asthma and allergies with the proper tools and knowledge. Whether you're at home, outdoors, or giving care in high-risk situations, having access to fundamental respiratory care items like a suction catheter can make a critical difference. Need a reliable provider of disposable suction catheters and respiratory care devices? Welcome to contact us today for more OEM solutions tailored for medical, military, and emergency field use.