Introduction | What is the Purpose? | Types | Top-Selling
Suction catheters are medical devices used to remove respiratory secretions, such as mucus and saliva from the upper airway. They are long, flexible tubes that connect to a suction machine or collection canister. One end of the suction catheter is connected to a suction canister (collection container) and a device that generates suction. The open end is inserted through the airway to the breathing tube or endotracheal tube or tracheostomy tube which is generally connected to a ventilator in order to remove secretions. The main purpose of suction catheters is to keep the upper airway clear of secretions and to prevent plugging. There are different types of suction catheters available, such as closed system, open system, yankauer tips, latex, red rubber catheters and latex free suction catheters.
Ventilators or Breathing Machines are often required for seriously injured and critically ill patients. The respiratory therapist inserts a suction catheter into the breathing tube/ endotracheal tube/ tracheostomy tube to remove secretions that accumulate in the airway. This keeps the airway clear of secretions and prevents blockage of the airways. Suction tubes can also effectively prevent the development of pneumonia in patients that require ventilator.
Closed system suction catheters- These multi-use suction catheters are primarily used to prevent infection and risk of pneumonia associated with suctioning. While using closed system suction catheter it is not required to disconnect the patient from the ventilator source.
The closed suction catheters also known as inline suction catheter is connected with the closed circuit from the ventilator machine and the breathing tube or endotracheal tube or the tracheostomy tube. They are multi-use suction catheters that only need to be changed every 24-48 hours. The main advantage of closed suction catheter is that the ventilator support remains intact since they are not disconnection from the ventilator. Closed suction catheters are mostly preferred since they minimises the risk of infection.
Open suction catheters on the other hand are single use disposable catheters. They can only be used after the ventilator has been disconnected from the breathing tube of the patient. Once the suction catheter is disconnected, it is gently inserted into the breathing tube for suction process to begin. The support to patient from ventilator is minimized until the suctioning is complete. Open suction catheters also poses higher risk of infection and pneumonia. However, a comparison of open and closed suction systems shows both to have similar results in terms of effectiveness and safety.
The suctioning process is safe and relatively fast. It usually takes a few seconds and therefore discomfort to patient is minimized. As with most intensive Care procedures even when performed by experienced doctors include certain risks. Complications such as hypoxia (lack of oxygen), cardiac arrhythmia, atelectasis (partial collapse in the lungs), intracranial and pulmonary pressure changes, pneumothorax (collapse of the lung) and mucosal trauma may result from endotracheal suctioning. It is best to register your concerns and discuss the details of procedure with the doctors.
Suction catheters have been a revolutionary tool in the process of removing waste from the airway canals of the body. We carry high-quality suction catheters from top manufacturers, explore our updated catalog and save big on every purchase you make.
Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics and text were created solely for informational purposes. Our content should never be used for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Content shared on our websites is not meant to be used as a substitute for advice from a certified medical professional. Reliance on the information provided on our website as a basis for patient treatment is solely at your own risk. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.
Shop Respiratory Supplies
Hunaid Germanwala is digital marketer and content creator at Health Products For You since 2014. He has an MS from Ulm University in ...
Enteral Feeding: The What, When, and How
When traditional oral intake is not feasible, enteral feeding comes into play. It supports nutritional needs of individuals recovering from an injury or surgery. Dive into this informative article and learn what, when, why, and how of enteral feeding and ensure optimal patient care.
Using the Carpal Solution Carpal Tunnel Wrist Support
Looking for a non-invasive option to manage carpal tunnel symptoms? Experience relief from constant tingling and pain with this Carpal Solution Wrist Support. Read this article to know about the unique features and benefits of this wrist support brace designed to deal with CTS and find why it is one of the most reliable wrist braces available on the market.
Top 5 Best Reviewed Nebulizers of 2023
Need an effective and affordable nebulizer? Look no further, in this article we offer 5 of our best reviewed nebulizers that are loved by our customers. Click to read more and find the perfect nebulizer for all your respiratory needs.
10 Best Overnight Adult Diapers
Worried about nighttime leaks? Say goodbye to leakage with our ten best overnight adult diapers and wake up refreshed and dry.
Five Best Cervical Traction Devices of 2023
Neck pain can wreak havoc on your otherwise healthy life. Traction device improves your cervical health and overall well-being. Read more to find our best cervical traction devices designed to curb the stiffness and discomfort of cervical muscles.