SUCTION CATHETER NO 12

How SUCTION CATHETER NO 12 Works

• The SUCTION CATHETER NO 12 is a medical device meticulously designed for the effective removal of fluids and secretions from the respiratory tract. Its functionality hinges on its precise construction and the application of negative pressure. Here's a detailed breakdown of how it works:
• 1. **Insertion and Placement:** The catheter, typically made of flexible, biocompatible material like PVC or silicone, is carefully inserted into the patient's airway. This can be through the nose (nasotracheal suctioning), the mouth (orotracheal suctioning), or via an existing artificial airway such as a tracheostomy or endotracheal tube. The size, designated as 'NO 12,' refers to the French gauge scale, indicating the catheter's outer diameter. Proper sizing is crucial to ensure effective suctioning without causing trauma to the delicate airway tissues.
• 2. **Application of Suction:** Once the catheter is correctly positioned, it is connected to a suction source, which generates negative pressure. This suction source is commonly a portable suction machine or a central vacuum system found in hospitals. The suction pressure is carefully regulated to avoid excessively high pressures that could damage the airway lining. The pressure is typically measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and adjusted based on the patient's age, condition, and the viscosity of the secretions.
• 3. **Fluid Aspiration:** The negative pressure created by the suction source draws fluids and secretions through the catheter's open distal tip and into the catheter lumen. These fluids then travel through the catheter tubing and are collected in a collection canister connected to the suction machine. The catheter's design, including the size and shape of the distal opening and any side ports (if present), is optimized to efficiently aspirate fluids while minimizing the risk of tissue adherence or injury.
• 4. **Controlled Withdrawal:** During suctioning, the catheter is typically advanced to the desired depth and then gradually withdrawn while applying intermittent suction. This technique helps to clear secretions along the entire length of the airway being suctioned. Rotation of the catheter during withdrawal can also aid in dislodging and removing tenacious secretions.
• 5. **Material Properties and Design Considerations:** The materials used in the SUCTION CATHETER NO 12 are selected for their flexibility, biocompatibility, and resistance to kinking or collapsing under negative pressure. Some catheters may be coated with hydrophilic substances to reduce friction and ease insertion. The distal tip is often rounded and smooth to minimize the risk of trauma to the airway mucosa.
• 6. **Mechanism for secretion removal:** The fundamental principle behind the suction catheter's operation is based on pressure difference. The suction machine creates a lower pressure in the collection canister compared to the environment inside the patient's airway. Consequently, the air and fluids inside the airway are pushed towards the suction catheter's opening and into the collection canister, due to the natural flow from higher pressure to lower pressure. The secretions, being viscous and obstructing the airway, are thus dislodged and removed, opening up the airway for improved breathing.
• 7. **Importance of proper technique:** Effective and safe suctioning requires proper technique and adherence to established protocols. Healthcare professionals must be trained in the correct insertion depth, suction pressure settings, and duration of suctioning to minimize the risk of complications such as hypoxemia (low blood oxygen), airway trauma, and infection. Proper hygiene and sterile technique are also essential to prevent the introduction of pathogens into the patient's airway.

While Suction Catheter No. 12 is designed for safe and effective airway management, potential side effects may include: * **Trauma to the Airway:** Insertion can cause damage to the delicate tissues of the nasal passages, pharynx, larynx, or trachea, leading to bleeding, swelling, or perforation. * **Infection:** Introduction of bacteria into the respiratory tract, potentially leading to pneumonia or other respiratory infections. * **Hypoxia:** Prolonged or improper suctioning can remove oxygen from the airway, causing a decrease in blood oxygen levels. * **Cardiac Arrhythmias:** Vagal stimulation during suctioning can trigger changes in heart rate and rhythm. * **Bronchospasm:** Irritation of the airway can cause the muscles in the bronchi to constrict, leading to difficulty breathing. * **Gagging and Vomiting:** Stimulation of the gag reflex can lead to discomfort and potential aspiration of stomach contents. * **Increased Intracranial Pressure (ICP):** Suctioning can temporarily increase ICP in susceptible individuals. * **Mucosal Damage:** Repeated or forceful suctioning can damage the lining of the airway, leading to ulceration or scarring. * **Atelectasis:** If suction is too strong, it can cause lung collapse due to removal of too much air. * **Pain and Discomfort:** Suctioning can be uncomfortable or painful, especially in conscious patients.

• SUCTION CATHETER NO 12 is a medical device and not a medication. Therefore, the concept of a 'missed dose' does not apply. Use as directed by your healthcare provider.

• Keep SUCTION CATHETER NO.12 away from the reach of children and pets.
• Store SUCTION CATHETER NO.12 at room temperature.

• Prior to insertion, always verify the patency and integrity of the SUCTION CATHETER NO 12. Check for any kinks, clogs, or damage to ensure smooth and effective suctioning. A compromised catheter can lead to ineffective aspiration and potential patient harm. Using a new, sterile catheter for each suctioning session is crucial to prevent infection. Reusing catheters can introduce harmful bacteria into the patient's airway, increasing the risk of pneumonia and other respiratory infections.
• Lubricate the SUCTION CATHETER NO 12 with sterile saline or water-soluble lubricant before insertion. This reduces friction and minimizes trauma to the delicate mucous membranes of the respiratory tract. Avoid oil-based lubricants, as they can cause lipoid pneumonia. Gentle insertion minimizes patient discomfort and the risk of injury. Always monitor the patient's vital signs, including heart rate, oxygen saturation, and respiratory rate, throughout the suctioning procedure. Changes in these parameters can indicate hypoxia, vagal stimulation, or other complications that require immediate intervention.
• When suctioning, apply intermittent suction only while withdrawing the SUCTION CATHETER NO 12, using a rotating motion. Continuous suctioning can damage the airway mucosa. The rotating motion helps to clear secretions from all sides of the airway. Limit each suctioning pass to 10-15 seconds to prevent hypoxia. Prolonged suctioning can deplete the patient's oxygen reserves, leading to respiratory distress. Allow the patient to rest and recover between suctioning passes.
• Ensure the SUCTION CATHETER NO 12 is properly sized for the patient's airway. A catheter that is too large can cause trauma, while one that is too small may not effectively clear secretions. The appropriate size is typically half the internal diameter of the endotracheal tube or tracheostomy tube. Regularly assess the patient's secretion characteristics (color, consistency, and amount). Changes in secretions can indicate infection, dehydration, or other underlying problems that require medical attention. Modify suctioning techniques based on the patient's specific needs and clinical condition.
• After each suctioning procedure, thoroughly flush the SUCTION CATHETER NO 12 with sterile saline to remove any residual secretions and prevent clogging. Dispose of the catheter properly in a designated biohazard container to prevent the spread of infection. Document the procedure, including the date, time, catheter size, suction pressure, patient response, and the characteristics of the secretions obtained. Accurate documentation provides a valuable record of the patient's respiratory status and the effectiveness of the intervention. Train caregivers or family members on proper suctioning techniques if the patient requires ongoing suctioning at home. Proper training can improve patient outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.

• SUCTION CATHETER NO 12 is a medical device and does not interact with food. It is used for removing secretions from the airway. There are no dietary restrictions or interactions associated with its use.