Portable Suction Machines

What is a Suction Machines used for:

Suction machines, also known as suction
apparatus or aspirators, are medical devices used to remove obstructions
such as mucus, saliva, blood, or other secretions from a person's
airway. They are especially useful in situations where individuals have
difficulty clearing these fluids on their own, such as during surgery,
in patients with compromised respiratory function, or in emergency
situations. The machine creates a vacuum to gently and efficiently
remove the fluids, helping to keep airways clear and unobstructed.

What types of Suction Machines are there?

There are several types of suction machines designed for various medical needs:

1. Portable Suction Machines: Lightweight and battery-operated, perfect for home use and travel.

2. Wall-Mounted Suction Units: Typically fixed in hospitals or clinics, providing consistent suction power.

3. Handheld Suction Devices: Manual and portable, used for emergency or quick interventions.

4. Stationary Suction Machines: Larger units with robust suction power, suited for long-term or frequent home care.

5. Aspirators: Specialized machines for removing mucus, blood, or liquids from airways and surgical sites.

These machines cater to diverse healthcare requirements, from routine respiratory management to critical medical procedures.

Steps for Using a Suction Machine

Preparation:

• Gather Supplies: Ensure you have all necessary equipment: suction machine, suction catheter or tubing, collection canister, connecting tubing, sterile gloves, and saline solution if needed.
• Wash Hands: Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer to maintain hygiene.
  

Assemble Equipment:

• Attach the collection canister to the suction machine.
• Connect one end of the suction tubing to the canister and the other end to the suction catheter.
  

Check Settings: Ensure the machine is set to the appropriate suction pressure. Adjust settings according to physician’s recommendations.

Operation

• Position the Patient: Ensure the patient is positioned comfortably. They should ideally be sitting up or elevated if possible.
• Turn on the Machine: Power on the machine and check for proper operation.

Prepare to Suction:

• Put on sterile gloves.
• If needed, moisten the suction catheter with sterile saline to ease insertion.
  

Insert Catheter:

• Carefully insert the suction catheter into the mouth or tracheostomy tube, as advised. Avoid forcing the catheter
• Do not suction for more than 10-15 seconds at a time to prevent oxygen deprivation.

Apply Suction:

• Cover the suction control valve with your thumb to begin suctioning.
• Gently rotate and withdraw the catheter while applying suction to remove secretions.
  

Dispose of Secretions: Ensure secretions are collected in the canister. Check the canister regularly and replace it when full.

Repeat if Necessary: Allow the patient to rest between attempts and provide supplemental oxygen if required. Repeat suctioning as necessary.

Post-Procedure Care

Turn Off the Machine: Switch off the suction machine after use.

Clean Equipment:

• Dispose of used catheters and gloves in biohazard waste.
• Clean the suction machine and reusable components according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  

Monitor the Patient: Observe the patient for any signs of distress, discomfort, or complications
Document the Procedure: Record the time, amount, and nature of secretions, and any patient reactions in the medical record.

Safety Tips:

• Use sterile techniques to minimize the risk of infection.
• Monitor the patient’s vital signs throughout the procedure.
• Be aware of signs of hypoxia such as cyanosis or difficulty breathing.
  

Always consult healthcare professionals if uncertain about any step. Proper training and adherence to clinical guidelines ensure effective and safe use of a suction machine.