Cleaning suctioning equipment and supplies

At the end of this chapter, you will be able to:

• identify when to clean different types of equipment
• demonstrate how to clean tracheostomy equipment

​​How often should I clean the suctioning equipment and supplies?

Daily

• Empty the canister into the toilet.
• Wash the canister in warm, soapy water and rinse well.
• Leave a little water at the bottom of the canister. The water will prevent mucus from sticking to the bottom.
• Check that the suction pressure is set correctly.
• Check that the filter is clean.
• Check that the suction tubing is clean.
• Check that the internal battery on the portable suction machine is charged.
• Check that suction supplies are stocked appropriately and reorder from respiratory vendor.

Note: Standard of practice in hospital due to infection control policies is to discard suction catheters after one use; however, recognizing the home environment differs and financial considerations, many families have opted to reuse suction catheters. In this scenario we suggest at minimum, to rinse after each suction and only using them for one hour.

Every 2 to 4 weeks

• Replace the suction connection tubing.

Monthly

• Check the filter. Change it when it looks wet or dirty or at least once every two months.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific suction machine. You can also ask the vendor/store where you purchased the suction machine for help.

How do I clean the canister?

The suction canister is cleaned daily with soap and water. Weekly, you can do a more thorough clean by additionally soaking it in a solution of vinegar and water as described below.

1. Gather your equipment and supplies:
• one container filled with warm, soapy water (use mild dish-washing soap)
• second container filled with 1 part white vinegar and 3 parts water
• clean cloth
• clean towel
2. Ensure suction machine is turned off and disconnected from the AC power source.
3. Remove the short tubing from the lid (if your model of suction machine has one). Remove the canister, take the lid off and empty the contents into the toilet.
4. If your suction machine has a filter cartridge, remove this so it does not get wet.
5. Wash all parts in the container of warm, soapy water.
6. Rinse all parts with tap water.
7. Place all parts in the container of vinegar and water and soak for 30 to 60 minutes.
8. Rinse all parts with warm tap water again.
9. Place all parts on a clean, dry towel and allow to air dry.
10. Once dry, re-assemble the tubing and canister.
11. Look for any cracks or tears. Replace any cracked or broken parts. Replace the tubing weekly or when it is dirty.
12. Wipe the machine down with a damp cloth.
13. Wash your hands.

Please refer to the suction machine manual for other recommendations with your model of suction machine.