(9) Clear the catheter as required between suctioning. This is accomplished
by inserting the tip of the catheter in the sterile solution, applying suction, and allowing
the solution to run through the catheter until the catheter is clear of secretions.
(10) Repeat suctioning until all secretions have been aspirated. Allow the
patient to rest between suctioning and re-oxygenate the patient before each suctioning.
4-4.
PROCEDURES PERFORMED AFTER SUCTIONING
a. Remove Catheter and Glove. After the suctioning is complete and the
catheter has been removed, turn off the suction apparatus and disconnect the catheter
from the suction tubing. Discard the catheter into the contaminated trash receptacle.
Remove your glove(s) and discard into the contaminated trash receptacle also.
b. Make the Patient Comfortable. Provide for the patient's comfort by
straightening and tightening bed linens, placing the patient in the semi-Fowler's position,
raising the bedside rails (if indicated), and placing the call bell/light within easy reach of
the patient.
c. Dispose of Used Items. Discard other disposable items into the trash
receptacle. Clean and store non-disposable items in accordance with the local SOP
and replenish supplies as needed.
d. Wash Hands. Perform a patient care hand wash.
e. Record Procedure in the Nursing Notes. Record the time, patient's
respiration rate, description of respirations (labored, noisy, etc.), procedure used (oral,
nasopharynx, or nasotracheal), and the type and amount of secretions obtained. If you
cleared the catheter between suctioning, remember to subtract the amount of saline
solution used from the total amount of fluid in the drainage bottle in order to arrive at the
amount of secretions actually obtained.
MD0542
4-11