Answer :
Tracheostomy suctioning is used to clear secretions from a tracheostomy tube. Regulation involves using sterile equipment, maintaining suction pressure between 80-120 mm Hg, limiting suction duration, and monitoring patient vitals.
In medical practice, tracheostomy suctioning is commonly used to clear secretions from the tracheostomy tube and the patient's airway. The process involves using a sterile, flexible catheter connected to a suction machine. The catheter is inserted into the tracheostomy tube to remove mucus and other secretions.
Regulation of Suctioning
The regulation of tracheostomy suctioning follows specific protocols:
- Sterility: Always use sterile equipment to prevent infections.
- Suction Pressure: The suction pressure should typically be regulated between 80-120 mm Hg for adults to avoid damage to the tracheal mucosa.
- Suctioning should not exceed 10-15 seconds per attempt to prevent hypoxia.
- Patient Monitoring: Continually monitor the patient's vital signs like oxygen saturation, heart rate, and respiratory rate.
These steps ensure the process is both effective and safe for the patient.
