CLINICAL OBSERVATION OF THE BEST POSSIBLE SUCTION TECHNIQUE FOR PATIENT ON MECHANICAL VENTILATION

XIAO Z-T

Shenzhen Children’s Hospital, Shenzhen, China

 

Objective: To explode the best possible suction technique for patients on mechanical ventilation to minimize the suction-related complications.

Methods: We reviewed thirty cases on mechanical ventilation between January 1998 and January 1999, analyzed nurses’ suction technique and  the causes of suction-related complications. Then we standardized the suction technique and sucked patients only when it is necessary, oxygen was delived to patients before and after suction. Proper suctioning negative pressure, suitable constant suction time and suction tube were the main points of standard suction technique. From February 1999 to December 2000, standard suction technique was used to fifty patients on ventilator.

Results: Tracheal injury was decreased from 10% to 3%; hypoxemia decreased from 58% to 5%; mucus plugging decreased from 3% to 0%.

Conclusion: An improper suctioning can cause many problems, which can threaten patient’s life. Use of the best possible suction technique can minimize the suction-related complications.

Key words: mechanical ventilation, suction technique, complication

 

 
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