If there are secretions, mucus, or other debris in their respiratory tracts, a suction catheter needs to be used to remove those matters in order to maintain airway patency and prevent respiratory infections. Therefor understanding suction catheters is helpful and important for patients and their concerned families and friends.   What Is a Suction Catheter?   A suction catheter is a thin, flexible tube designed to be inserted into the patient's respiratory tract, usually through the nose or mouth, to aspirate secretions and other fluids that may cause obstruction or infection. Made from materials such as plastic or silicone, suction catheters are sterile and disposable to ensure patient safety and prevent cross-contamination.   Construction of a Suction Catheter   Suction catheters, used for removing secretions, mucus, and other debris from a patient's respiratory tract, are carefully engineered in a way that ensures safety, effectiveness, and patient comfort. An explanation of their construction is as follows.   1) Materials   Suction catheters are typically made from materials that are soft, flexible, and non-toxic. The most common materials used are described as follows.   A. Plastic, such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyurethane is commonly used in manufacturing suction catheters. Plastic suction catheters are lightweight and cost-effective, making them suitable for routine use.   B. Silicone suction catheters are flexible and durable. Suction catheters made with silicone material provides properties of low friction and minimal tissue trauma, and are thus suitable for delicate procedures or for patients with sensitive airways.   2) Tubular Structure   The main component of a suction catheter is its tubular structure, as elaborated below.   A. Length and Diameter: The length and diameter of the suction catheter vary depending on the intended use and patient's age. Adult suction catheters are typically longer and larger in diameter than pediatric ones.   B. Flexibility: The tubular structure is designed to be flexible, allowing it to navigate the curves of the respiratory tract without causing damage to the surrounding tissue.   3) End Design   The end of the suction catheter, which is inserted into the patient's respiratory tract, comes in various designs.   A. Straight Tip: Suitable for general suctioning procedures.   B. Angled or Curved Tip: Designed to facilitate insertion and navigation within the respiratory tract, especially in deeper areas.   C. Side Holes: Some suction catheters feature holes along the length of the tube, allowing for more efficient suctioning of secretions.   D. End Hole: Others have a single hole at the tip, ideal for targeted suctioning of specific areas.   4) Connection Mechanism   The proximal end of the suction catheter, which remains outside the patient's body, is designed to connect to a suction device or machine.   A. Luer Lock or Luer Slip Connector: A standardized connection mechanism that allows for easy and secure attachment to the suction device.   B. Adapter or Coupler: Some suction catheters come with an adapter or coupler to facilitate connection to different types of suction devices.   5) Sterility and Disposability   Suction catheters are typically sterile and intended for single-use only. This ensures patient safety and prevents cross-contamination.   6) Transparency   Many suction catheters are made from transparent materials, allowing healthcare professionals to visualize the secretions being aspirated during the procedure. This enhances safety and effectiveness.   7) Markings and Measurements   Some suction catheters may have markings or measurements along their length to indicate the depth of insertion; this feature helps healthcare professionals to gauge the appropriate depth for suctioning.   An illustrative picture of a suction catheter with markings and measurements   8) Special Features   Certain suction catheters may have additional features designed to improve their performance or patient comfort, such as soft, rounded tips which minimize trauma to the respiratory tract.   Picture of suction catheters from Hangzhou Bever Medical Device Co., Ltd.   Types of Suction Catheters   Suction catheters come in various types and classifications, each designed for specific purposes and patient needs. Here are some of the most common types.   1) By Use   A. General Suction Catheters: Used for routine suctioning of secretions in the mouth, throat, and upper airways.   B. Deep Suction Catheters: Designed for insertion deeper into the respiratory tract, such as the trachea or bronchi, for more extensive suctioning.   2) By Material   A. Plastic Suction Catheters: Lightweight and cost-effective, commonly used for general suctioning.   B. Silicone Suction Catheters: More flexible and durable, often used for delicate procedures or patients with sensitive airways.   3) By Patient Type   A. Adult Suction Catheters: Larger in diameter and length, suitable for adult patients.   B. Pediatric Suction Catheters: Smaller and more flexible, designed specifically for use in children.   4) By Design   A. Straight Suction Catheters: Simple and easy to use, suitable for most routine suctioning procedures.   B. Angled Suction Catheters: Have a curved tip for easier insertion and navigation within the respiratory tract.   C. Side-Hole Suction Catheters: Feature holes along the length of the catheter, allowing for more efficient suctioning of secretions.   D. End-Hole Suction Catheters: Have a single hole at the tip, ideal for targeted suctioning of specific areas.   Suction Catheter Use Instructions   Proper use of suction catheters is crucial to ensure patient safety and effectiveness. Here are some general instructions for using suction catheters:   1) Preparation   A. Ensure that the suction catheter is sterile and undamaged.   B. Check the suction device for proper functioning and adjust the suction pressure according to the patient's needs.   2) Patient Positioning   A. Position the patient comfortably, with the head tilted back to facilitate insertion of the suction catheter.   B. Use a tongue depressor or other device to open the mouth, if necessary.   3) Insertion and Suctioning   A. Lubricate the tip of the suction catheter with water-based lubricant to reduce friction and trauma.   B. Insert the suction catheter gently into the patient's respiratory tract, taking care not to force it.   C. Apply suction while slowly withdrawing the catheter, rotating it as needed to ensure thorough suctioning.   D. Avoid suctioning for more than 10-15 seconds at a time to prevent airway trauma.   4) Monitoring and Post-Procedure Care   A. Monitor the patient's vital signs and respiratory status throughout the procedure.   B. Observe the aspirated secretions for color, consistency, and volume, which can provide valuable information about the patient's condition.   Final Thoughts   Understanding suction catheters requires the explanation of what is a suction catheter, its construction, the various types of catheters, and suction catheter use instructions. By now your knowledge of the suction catheter is not only theoretical but also practical. This improved information and knowledge of the catheter may help with allaying the anxieties you previously had arising from lack of information about how it is applied to solve respiratory problems. If you want to see the actual suction catheter products there is a website available: Hangzhou Bever Medical Device Co., Ltd. at www.bevermedical.com.

For those who are acquainted with endotracheal tubes, there might be a desire to see some elaboration on cuffed and uncuffed endotracheal tubes. In this article we would like to share with you descriptions of these two types of endotracheal tubes.   As we know, an endotracheal tube is a flexible plastic tube that is inserted into the trachea (see definition below) through the mouth or nose. It can be used for maintaining airway patency, and is also useful to facilitate mechanical ventilation (see definition below).   Notes:   1) The trachea is the tube in humans extending from the larynx to the bronchi. It is the principal passage for conveying air to and from the lungs; it is also called the windpipe.   2) Mechanical ventilation: If the patient cannot breathe on their own, he/she will need to use a ventilator. The ventilator is a machine that moves breathable air in and out of the lungs.   The insertion of an endotracheal tube   Cuffed endotracheal tube   1) What is a cuffed endotracheal tube?   Cuffed endotracheal tube has an inflatable cuff near the end. The cuff is an inflatable balloon around the end of the tube. Made from silicone or rubber, the cuff, when inflated, presses tightly against the inner wall of the trachea, creating a seal that prevents leakage of air and other substances.   2) Applications where the cuffed endotracheal tube is used   A. During mechanical ventilation where the patient is ventilated with a high airway pressure, the cuffed endotracheal tube is the preferred type over the uncuffed type.   B. If the patient requires long period of ventilation, this is also the preferred type. The reason is that the cuff when inflated provides an effective seal and stability.   C. During laparoscopic surgery and cardiothoracic surgery, the seal between the trachea and tube is supposed to be high and effective, therefore cuffed endotracheal tube is preferred in both procedures. Besides, the use of cuffed endotracheal tube provides better benefits for monitoring respiratory mechanics (you can monitor it more accurately). Moreover, it reduces the loss of volatile drugs, thus helping to lower anesthetic costs.   3) Disadvantages of the Cuffed endotracheal tube   As you can see from section about the application of cuffed type of tube, this type’s advantages are apparent. So here we discuss its disadvantages.   A. Cuffed endotracheal tube has a relatively complicated structure. The insertion and removal of it take certain level of skill.   B. You need to be able to precisely control the extent to which the cuff is inflated otherwise over-inflation will cause damage to the tracheal wall.   C. If used in children under 8 there is a significant risk of damaging the laryngeal part or the tracheal mucosa.   Uncuffed endotracheal tube   1) What is an Uncuffed endotracheal tube?   An uncuffed endotracheal tube does not have a cuff. Its tube shape and diameter adapt to the trachea and is thus able to create a seal between the tube and the trachea. Due to its structural simplicity, the uncuffed endotracheal tube is easier to insert and remove.   2) Applications where uncuffed endotracheal tube is used   A. Infants and young children, especially those under the age of 8, traditionally have smaller and more delicate airways that can be easily damaged by a cuff. This is reason for use of this type of endotracheal tube. Besides, their cricoid cartilage often acts as a natural seal, making an artificial cuff unnecessary.   B. It is used in procedures or situations where intubation is expected to be brief. It is also used in situations where mechanical ventilation pressures are not high.   C. Uncuffed endotracheal tube is suitable for emergency tracheal intubation, for instance, we use an uncuffed endotracheal tube in emergency situations such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation because it is a convenient tool easier to insert and remove.   3) Disadvantages of uncuffed endotracheal tube   A. There may not be an effective seal between the tube and the trachea, resulting in leakage.   B. If the patient needs to undergo mechanical ventilation for a long period or if he/she needs to be ventilated with high airway pressure, the uncuffed endotracheal tube is not the suitable tube to be used.   To give you a vivid idea of these two different types of endotracheal tubes, please refer to the following image. If you are interested in specifications and other information about them, you can visit website: www.bevermedical.com   Cuffed and uncuffed endotracheal tubes from Bever Medical Devices   Recent trends   People are becoming more skillful in handling the cuff to avoid its negative effects. The cuff design is improving. The improved design of the cuffed tube minimizes pressure on the tracheal wall while providing an effective seal. So there is an increasing use of cuffed tubes in Pediatrics.   Important notes   As you can see from the above, cuffed and uncuffed endotracheal tubes have their respective advantages and disadvantages. They are selected to be used in situations where they are suitable, based on factors such as conditions of the patient, needs of surgery or treatment, experience and skills of the medical personnel. The applications of these two types of endotracheal tubes will be optimized and enhanced as medical technologies advance and research intensifies.  

For people interested in knowing about endotracheal tubes, the most important questions they have are: what is an endotracheal tube, what is the construction of an endotracheal tube, and what are the uses of an endotracheal tube? This article is intended to be informative and provides answers to those key questions.   Background Information: What Is the Human Airway   The human airway is a complex system that facilitates the intake and expulsion of air during respiration. It comprises several distinct sections, each with its unique anatomical features and functional roles.   Nasal Cavity   This is the starting point of the respiratory tract, located in the face. The nasal cavity filters, warms, and humidifies inhaled air, reducing the irritants that would otherwise reach the lower respiratory tract. Its intricate structure, including nasal hairs, mucous membranes, and sinuses, contributes to these functions.   Pharynx   Serving as a common passage for both the respiratory and digestive tracts, the pharynx is divided into three main regions: nasopharynx, oropharynx, and laryngopharynx. Each of these regions has specialized roles in swallowing, voice production, and protecting the airway from foreign bodies.   Larynx (Voice Box)   Located below the pharynx, the larynx contains the vocal folds (also known as vocal cords), which are crucial for sound production. Additionally, the larynx acts as a gatekeeper, preventing food and liquids from entering the lungs during swallowing.   Trachea (Windpipe)   The trachea is a rigid, cylindrical tube that connects the larynx to the lungs. It is composed of rings of cartilage reinforced by smooth muscle, which allows it to maintain its shape while also being flexible enough to accommodate changes in air pressure during breathing. The trachea's lining is covered with ciliated epithelium and mucus-secreting glands, which help clear debris and pathogens from the airway.   Bronchial Tree   The trachea branches into the right and left main bronchi upon entering the lungs. These bronchi further divide into smaller and smaller bronchioles, eventually terminating in tiny alveoli where gas exchange occurs. The bronchial tree's intricate branching pattern ensures that air is distributed evenly throughout the lungs. Like the trachea, the bronchi and bronchioles are lined with ciliated epithelium and mucus-producing glands, which are vital for maintaining airway health.   What Is an Endotracheal Tube   An endotracheal tube (ETT) is a flexible, plastic tube that is inserted through the mouth or nose into the trachea (windpipe) to establish and maintain an open airway during medical procedures or in critically ill patients who require mechanical ventilation. It serves as a conduit for delivering oxygen and removing carbon dioxide from the lungs, ensuring adequate gas exchange and preventing airway obstruction.   A typical endotracheal tube   Construction of an Endotracheal Tube   The construction of an endotracheal tube (ETT) typically involves several key components and features, as outlined below.   Tube Material   ETTs are commonly made of flexible, medical-grade plastics such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride) or silicone. These materials are chosen for their durability, flexibility, and biocompatibility.   Tube Diameter and Length   The diameter and length of the ETT are carefully selected based on the patient's age, size, and medical needs. Smaller ETTs are used for pediatric patients, while larger ETTs are required for adults. The length of the ETT is sufficient to extend from the patient's mouth or nose to the distal end, which sits within the trachea.   Cuff Design   Most ETTs have an inflatable cuff near the distal end. This cuff can be inflated with air or gas to create a seal between the ETT and the tracheal wall, minimizing the risk of aspiration and improving ventilation efficiency. The cuff is typically made of a soft, compliant material to minimize tracheal trauma.   Distal End Shaping   The distal end of the ETT is shaped to facilitate insertion through the vocal cords and into the trachea. It may have a rounded or beveled tip to reduce trauma to the vocal cords and trachea. Additionally, the distal end may be tapered to conform to the triangular-shaped space between the vocal cords, making insertion easier.   Ports or Perforations   Some ETTs have small ports or perforations in the walls of the tube, particularly in the tapered section near the distal end. These ports allow for the passage of air and secretions, reducing the risk of obstruction and improving ventilation.   Proximal End Components   The proximal end of the ETT remains outside the patient's body and connects to a ventilator or breathing circuit. It typically includes a connector for attaching to the ventilator tubing, a pilot balloon for monitoring cuff inflation, and a valve for adjusting cuff pressure.   Additional Features   Some ETTs may have additional features designed to improve patient comfort, safety, and ease of use. For example, some ETTs have a soft, rounded Murphy eye (a small indentation or notch in the wall of the tube) to reduce the risk of tracheal injury during insertion. Others may have an X-ray opaque line running through the length of the tube to aid in its visualization during radiographic procedures.   Uses of an Endotracheal Tube   An endotracheal tube (ETT) is used in various medical situations, primarily when there is a need to secure and maintain an open airway for a patient who is unable to breathe adequately on their own. Here are some specific scenarios where an endotracheal tube might be utilized:   General Anesthesia   During surgical procedures that require general anesthesia, an ETT is inserted to ensure that the patient's airway remains open and unobstructed, allowing for controlled ventilation with oxygen-rich gases. This prevents hypoxia (lack of oxygen) and ensures proper anesthesia depth.   Airway Obstruction   In cases where a patient's airway is obstructed due to various reasons (e.g., foreign body, trauma, swelling, or anatomical abnormalities), an ETT can be placed to bypass the obstruction and establish a patent airway.   Critical Illness   Critically ill patients, such as those with respiratory failure, pneumonia, or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), may require mechanical ventilation through an ETT to support their breathing.   Trauma or Resuscitation   In emergency situations, such as trauma or cardiac arrest, an ETT may be inserted to facilitate resuscitation efforts and ensure adequate ventilation.   Long-term Ventilation   In some cases, patients may require long-term mechanical ventilation due to chronic conditions. An ETT may be used in these situations.   Our Intentions   By discussing what is an endotracheal tube, the construction of an endotracheal tube, and the uses of an endotracheal tube, we have made you more acquainted with endotracheal tubes so that you have a better comprehension of the device. This enhanced knowledge might be of help to your future inquiries (You can take a look at this website if you want to dig into more details of the tubes: www.bevermedical .com).

For those who are acquainted with endotracheal tubes, there might be a desire to see some elaboration on cuffed and uncuffed endotracheal tubes. In this article we would like to share with you descriptions of these two types of endotracheal tubes.   As we know, an endotracheal tube is a flexible plastic tube that is inserted into the trachea (see definition below) through the mouth or nose. It can be used for maintaining airway patency, and is also useful to facilitate mechanical ventilation (see definition below).   Notes:   1) The trachea is the tube in humans extending from the larynx to the bronchi. It is the principal passage for conveying air to and from the lungs; it is also called the windpipe.   2) Mechanical ventilation: If the patient cannot breathe on their own, he/she will need to use a ventilator. The ventilator is a machine that moves breathable air in and out of the lungs.   The insertion of an endotracheal tube   Cuffed endotracheal tube 1) What is a cuffed endotracheal tube?   Cuffed endotracheal tube has an inflatable cuff near the end. The cuff is an inflatable balloon around the end of the tube. Made from silicone or rubber, the cuff, when inflated, presses tightly against the inner wall of the trachea, creating a seal that prevents leakage of air and other substances.   2) Applications where cuffed endotracheal tube is used   A. During mechanical ventilation where the patient is ventilated with a high airway pressure, the cuffed endotracheal tube is the preferred type over the uncuffed type.   B. If the patient requires long period of ventilation, this is also the preferred type. The reason is that the cuff when inflated provides an effective seal and stability.   C. During laparoscopic surgery and cardiothoracic surgery, the seal between the trachea and tube is supposed to be high and effective, therefore cuffed endotracheal tube is preferred in both procedures. Besides, the use of cuffed endotracheal tube provides better benefits for monitoring respiratory mechanics (you can monitor it more accurately). Moreover, it reduces the loss of volatile drugs, thus helping to lower anesthetic costs.   3) Disadvantages of cuffed endotracheal tube   As you can see from section about the application of cuffed type of tube, this type’s advantages are apparent. So here we discuss its disadvantages.   A. Cuffed endotracheal tube has a relatively complicated structure. The insertion and removal of it take certain level of skill.   B. You need to be able to precisely control the extent to which the cuff is inflated otherwise over-inflation will cause damage to the tracheal wall.   C. If used in children under 8 there is a significant risk of damaging the laryngeal part or the tracheal mucosa.   Uncuffed endotracheal tube   1) What is an Uncuffed endotracheal tube?   An uncuffed endotracheal tube does not have a cuff. Its tube shape and diameter adapt to the trachea and is thus able to create a seal between the tube and the trachea. Due to its structural simplicity, the uncuffed endotracheal tube is easier to insert and remove.   2) Applications where uncuffed endotracheal tube is used   A. Infants and young children, especially those under the age of 8, traditionally have smaller and more delicate airways that can be easily damaged by a cuff. This is reason for use of this type of endotracheal tube. Besides, their cricoid cartilage often acts as a natural seal, making an artificial cuff unnecessary.   B. It is used in procedures or situations where intubation is expected to be brief. It is also used in situations where mechanical ventilation pressures are not high.   C. Uncuffed endotracheal tube is suitable for emergency tracheal intubation, for instance, we use an uncuffed endotracheal tube in emergency situations such as cardiopulmonary resuscitation because it is a convenient tool easier to insert and remove.   3) Disadvantages of uncuffed endotracheal tube   A. There may not be an effective seal between tube and the trachea, resulting in leakage.   B. If the patient needs to undergo mechanical ventilation for a long period or if he/she needs to be ventilated with high airway pressure, the uncuffed endotracheal tube is not the suitable tube to be used.   To give you a vivid idea of these two different types of endotracheal tubes, please refer to the following image. If you are interested in specifications and other information about them, you can visit website: www.bevermedical.com   Cuffed and uncuffed endotracheal tubes from Bever Medical Devices   Recent trends   People are becoming more skillful in handling the cuff to avoid its negative effects. The cuff design is improving. The improved design of the cuffed tube minimizes pressure on the tracheal wall while providing an effective seal. So there is an increasing use of cuffed tubes in Pediatrics.   Important notes   As you can see from the above, cuffed and uncuffed endotracheal tubes have their respective advantages and disadvantages. They are selected to be used in situations where they are suitable, based on factors such as conditions of the patient, needs of surgery or treatment, experience and skills of the medical personnel. The applications of these two types of endotracheal tubes will be optimized and enhanced as medical technologies advance and research intensifies.  

A suction catheter is a medical device used to clear mucus, secretions, or other fluids from a patient's airway to ensure proper breathing. This procedure is commonly performed in hospitals, particularly for patients with respiratory issues or those who are on ventilators. In this article we share with you a general guide on how to use a suction catheter safely and effectively.    Types of Suction Catheters   Suction catheters are classified into two main types.   1) Open Suction Catheter   This type is generally used for intermittent suctioning in patients who are not connected to mechanical ventilation. It requires sterile technique and is a single-use device.   For more technical descriptions of suction catheters such as specifications, you can visit such experienced manufacturers as Hangzhou Bever Medical Device Co., Ltd. (www.bevermedical.com).   2) Closed Suction Catheter   Used primarily for patients on mechanical ventilation, this catheter is enclosed in a plastic sheath that keeps the system sterile between uses, allowing for multiple uses without disconnection from the ventilator.   Materials Needed   To perform suctioning, we’ll need the following supplies.   Suction catheter (open or closed system)   Suction tubing and suction machine   Sterile gloves (for open suction)   Sterile saline solution (for flushing the catheter)   Personal protective equipment (mask, goggles)   A pulse oximeter (optional, to monitor oxygen levels)   Procedure for Open Suction Catheter   1) Prepare the Patient   Ensure the patient is in a comfortable position, ideally semi-upright, to make airway access easier.   Explain the procedure to the patient, as it may cause discomfort or coughing.   If necessary, provide oxygen before starting, especially if the patient has low oxygen levels.   2) Hand Hygiene and PPE   Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.   Put on gloves, mask, and goggles to protect against exposure to secretions.   3) Set up the Suction Machine   Connect the suction tubing to the machine, ensuring the suction pressure is set appropriately. For adults, the suction pressure is typically between 80-120 mmHg. Too high a pressure can damage the airway lining.   4) Insert the Catheter   Hold the catheter in one hand and the suction control valve in the other (usually located at the proximal end of the catheter).   Gently insert the catheter into the patient’s nose, mouth, or tracheostomy tube without applying suction. Guide the catheter down the airway until resistance is felt or the patient coughs, signaling that you’ve reached the lower airway or where secretions are present.   5) Apply Suction   Begin suctioning by covering the control valve with your thumb and gently withdraw the catheter while rotating it to collect secretions.   Be careful not to suction for more than 10-15 seconds at a time, as prolonged suctioning can cause oxygen deprivation.   6) Rinse and Repeat   If needed, rinse the catheter with sterile saline by suctioning some of the solution through the tubing to clear mucus build-up.   If the patient requires additional suctioning, allow them to rest between attempts and ensure adequate oxygenation before repeating the process.   7) Discard the Catheter   After use, safely discard the catheter and gloves, and perform hand hygiene again.   Procedure for Closed Suction Catheter   The closed suction catheter is used in patients who are on mechanical ventilation, and its use allows for continuous connection to the ventilator without disconnection.   1) Explain the Procedure   Even though the patient may be on a ventilator, it’s important to explain the procedure to conscious patients, as suctioning can cause discomfort or coughing.   2) Set up Suction and Ventilation   Check that the suction tubing is securely attached to the closed suction system and that suction pressure is set to an appropriate level (80-120 mmHg).   Increase the oxygen concentration or pre-oxygenate the patient to prevent a drop in oxygen levels during the procedure.   3) Insert the Catheter   The closed suction catheter is housed inside a clear, protective sheath connected directly to the ventilator circuit. Push the catheter into the airway through the ventilator tube.   As you advance the catheter, observe the patient’s response. Advance it until you feel slight resistance (this is the carina, where the trachea branches into the lungs), or until secretions are reached.   4) Suction and Withdraw   Apply suction by pressing the button or covering the suction control valve.   Withdraw the catheter while rotating it slightly to ensure secretions are effectively removed.   Suctioning should not exceed 10-15 seconds to avoid causing airway trauma or hypoxia.   5) Clean the Catheter   After suctioning, flush the catheter with sterile saline to clear any remaining mucus.   The catheter can remain in the closed system for future use, as it remains sterile within the sheath.   6) Monitor the Patient   Always monitor the patient’s oxygen levels, heart rate, and respiratory status during and after the procedure.   Reoxygenate the patient if necessary, and adjust the ventilator settings back to their previous levels.   Safety Considerations   Limit Suction Time: Suctioning should never last more than 10-15 seconds per attempt to avoid causing hypoxia (low oxygen levels).   Suction Pressure: Ensure the suction pressure is set between 80-120 mmHg for adults. Too high a pressure can cause tissue damage to the airway.   Monitor Patient’s Response: Watch for signs of distress, such as rapid breathing, drop in oxygen saturation, or abnormal heart rate.   Maintain Sterility: When using an open suction catheter, maintain sterile technique to reduce the risk of introducing infections. For closed systems, ensure the catheter remains inside the sheath when not in use.   How to Use Closed Suction Catheter and How to Use Inline Suction Catheter   Closed suction catheter refers to the type of catheter that remains within a protective sheath, allowing for multiple uses without exposure to the external environment. This system is used primarily in mechanically ventilated patients.   Inline suction catheter is essentially a closed suction catheter that is directly connected to the ventilator circuit, allowing for suctioning without disconnection from the ventilator.   The above description of how to use suction catheter is general, which means that it has taken into consideration closed suction catheters and inline suction catheters. The general nature of the article on how to use a suction catheter means that the article provides answers to how to use closed suction catheters and to how to use inline suction catheters.   In the article, the section titled "Procedure for Closed Suction Catheter" covers the steps involved in using closed suction catheters and inline suction catheters.   Comments Welcomed   We will be glad if this article gives you some useful information about suction catheters and how they are used. Please give us your suggestions, comments or feedbacks if you have any.

As we know, suction catheters are used to remove secretions such as mucus, saliva, blood, or other fluids from a patient's airway, trachea, or lungs. Understanding how it works will improve our grasp of this kind of product, which in turn helps a lot if you are concerned for a person with problems that need to be solved with a suction catheter.   What Is a Suction Catheter   A suction catheter is a medical device used to remove secretions such as mucus, saliva, blood, or other fluids from a patient's airway, trachea, or lungs to help them breathe more easily. It is typically a long, flexible tube inserted into the airway via the mouth, nose, or through a tracheostomy tube.  Different Types of Suction Catheters   Suction catheters are available in various types, each designed for specific purposes and patient needs. Different types of suction catheters are described below.   1) Flexible Suction Catheter   Description: A soft, flexible tube that can be inserted deeper into the trachea or bronchial tree.   Usage: Often used for patients with endotracheal or tracheostomy tubes. It is inserted into the trachea to remove secretions from the lower airways.   Advantages: The flexibility allows it to navigate the airway more easily and reach deeper into the lungs.   2) Coude Tip Suction Catheter   Description: A flexible suction catheter with a slightly angled or curved tip.   Usage: Designed to access specific areas of the airway, particularly the left mainstem bronchus, which can be difficult to reach with a standard straight catheter.   Advantages: The angled tip allows for more targeted suctioning, especially in difficult-to-reach areas.   3) Whistle Tip Suction Catheter   Description: A catheter with a side hole near the tip, reducing the risk of trauma during suctioning.   Usage: Used in patients with delicate airway tissues or when a gentler suction is needed.   Advantages: The design minimizes the chance of mucosal damage, making it safer for patients with sensitive airways.   If you want to see how an actual catheter of this type looks like, refer to the picture below from Hangzhou Bever Medical Device Co., Ltd.   4) Argyle Suction Catheter   Description: A flexible catheter with multiple eyes (holes) at the tip.   Usage: Typically used for suctioning secretions from the trachea and bronchial tree.   Advantages: The multiple eyes help ensure consistent suctioning and reduce the risk of tissue adherence and trauma.   5) Silicone Suction Catheter   Description: Made from soft silicone, this catheter is more pliable and less likely to cause trauma to the airway tissues.   Usage: Used for patients with sensitive airways or when repeated suctioning is necessary.   Advantages: The soft material is gentle on the tissues, reducing the risk of irritation or damage.   How Does a Suction Catheter Work   A suction catheter works by removing fluids, secretions, or debris from a patient's airway to help maintain clear breathing. A suction catheter helps keep the airway clear of obstructions that can impede breathing, providing essential respiratory support for patients in various medical settings, from emergency care to post-surgical recovery and intensive care.   The steps below shows how it works.   1) Connection to Suction Machine   The suction catheter is connected to a suction machine or a wall-mounted suction unit. This machine generates negative pressure, creating a vacuum that helps draw out fluids from the body.   2) Insertion into the Airway   The suction catheter, typically made of flexible material, is gently inserted into the patient’s airway, either through the mouth, nose, or a tracheostomy tube (if applicable). For deeper suctioning, it can be introduced into the trachea or bronchial passages.   Care must be taken to avoid trauma to the airway during insertion.   3) Application of Suction   Once the catheter reaches the desired location, suction is applied by covering a small control valve or hole (often called a "thumb port") on the catheter or suction line. This action creates a vacuum at the catheter’s tip, allowing it to pull out secretions.   The catheter is gently rotated or withdrawn slowly to collect secretions without causing airway injury.   4) Collection of Secretions   As the catheter suctions fluids, they are transported through the catheter tubing and into a collection chamber attached to the suction machine. This chamber holds the removed mucus, blood, saliva, or other fluids for disposal.   5) Removal and Cleaning   After the suctioning procedure, the catheter is removed carefully from the airway. In cases where the catheter is disposable, it is discarded after use. Reusable catheters, however, must be cleaned and sterilized before the next use.   The airway is evaluated to ensure it is clear, and additional suctioning may be performed if needed.   6) Maintaining Oxygenation   If the patient is on oxygen or a ventilator, suctioning may briefly interrupt the flow of oxygen. For this reason, closed suction systems or techniques like hyperoxygenation before suctioning are used to minimize oxygen loss, especially in critically ill patients.   How to Use a Suction Catheter   Preparation   Gather Supplies   Suction catheter (correct size for the patient)   Suction machine or wall-mounted suction unit   Sterile gloves   Sterile water or saline (for lubricating and cleaning the catheter)   Suction tubing   Collection canister (connected to the suction unit)   Personal protective equipment (PPE), including mask and goggles (if required)   Set Up the Suction Machine   Connect the suction catheter tubing to the suction machine or wall unit.   Ensure the suction unit is working and set the pressure to a safe range:   Adults: 100–150 mmHg   Children: 100–120 mmHg   Infants: 80–100 mmHg   Preterm neonates: 60–80 mmHg   Ensure Sterility   Wash your hands and put on sterile gloves.   If using an open suction system, maintain sterility of the suction catheter by handling only the proximal end (the part that connects to the tubing).   Position the Patient   Position the patient in a semi-Fowler's or upright position to help facilitate easier access to the airway and to optimize lung expansion.   If the patient is unconscious or cannot sit upright, lateral positioning or head tilt may be used.   Pre-Oxygenation (if necessary)   For patients on oxygen or a ventilator, consider giving them supplemental oxygen for 30–60 seconds before suctioning to prevent oxygen desaturation.   Suctioning Process   Insert the Suction Catheter   Gently insert the suction catheter into the patient's airway (nose, mouth, or tracheostomy) without applying suction yet.   If suctioning the trachea, advance the catheter carefully until you feel resistance (about 10-15 cm for adults), then withdraw slightly before applying suction.   Apply Suction   Apply suction by covering the control port or valve on the catheter while slowly withdrawing the catheter.   Rotate the catheter between your fingers as you pull it out to ensure all areas of the airway are reached.   Limit suctioning to 10-15 seconds per pass to reduce the risk of hypoxia (oxygen deprivation).   Clear the Catheter   After each suction pass, clear the catheter by dipping it into sterile water or saline and applying suction to rinse out any mucus or secretions trapped inside.   If necessary, repeat the process of suctioning and clearing until the airway is clear of secretions.   Monitor the Patient   Throughout the process, observe the patient for signs of distress, oxygen desaturation, or changes in vital signs.   Stop suctioning immediately if the patient shows any signs of discomfort, respiratory distress, or bradycardia (slow heart rate).   Post-Suctioning Care   Reassess the Patient   Check the patient’s respiratory status, including oxygen saturation levels, breath sounds, and overall comfort.   Administer supplemental oxygen if required to help the patient recover from the suctioning procedure.   Clean and Dispose of Equipment   If the catheter is single-use, discard it immediately in a biohazard waste container.   If using a reusable suction catheter, clean it with sterile water and follow sterilization procedures according to your facility’s protocols.   Document the Procedure   Document the procedure, including the number of suction passes, the patient’s response, the type and amount of secretions removed, and any complications.   Conclusion   We hope this article explains clearly how a suction catheter works. By knowing how it works, people interested in suction catheters will be more informed on how to make it provide optimal medical benefits. If you want to delve into this product, you can visit a website such as this one: www.bevermedical.com.