f. Using aseptic technique, don the sterile gloves.
g. Attach the sterile suction catheter to the connecting tubing by holding the
catheter in your dominant hand (sterile hand) and the connecting tube in your non-
dominant hand (non-sterile hand). Refer to Figure 2-4.
h. Moisten the catheter tip in the sterile saline.
i.
Instruct your assistant to hyper oxygenate the patient.
(1)
Disconnect ventilator tubing if patient is receiving mechanical ventilation.
(2) Give the patient several breaths of 100 percent oxygen with the ambu
bag and quickly remove the bag.
Figure 2-4. Suction catheter and connecting tube.
j. With the suction diverted, gently insert the sterile suction catheter into the
tracheostomy tube until slight resistance is felt, then pull back slightly.
k. Apply suction.
(1) Place the thumb of your non-dominant (non-sterile) hand over the
suction control port of the catheter.
(2) Rotate the catheter between the thumb and index finger of your sterile
hand while withdrawing the catheter. Apply intermittent suction while withdrawing.
(3)
Suction only for 5-10 seconds. Refer to Figure 2-5.
MD0917
2-37