Troubleshooting suctioning problems

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Find out how to troubleshoot problems with your child's suctioning equipment and how to be prepared for emergencies.

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

  • discuss troubleshooting strategies for common problems related to suctioning

Why does my child feel short of breath while being suctioned?

Your child will feel short of breath because suctioning removes oxygen from their airway.

  • Try to keep the suction time to less than 10 seconds and allow your child to take a few breaths between suctioning attempts.
  • Your child's doctor may prescribe the use of a manual resuscitation bag before and after suctioning if your child can tolerate it. This can help move the mucus up the airway, so it is easier to suction or cough up. It is often prescribed for children who require a mechanical ventilator to help them breathe.

There is a lot of mucus in my child's airway and it is difficult to get it out. What do I do?

  1. Use the manual resuscitation bag to deliver three to five breaths to help loosen thicker secretions.
  2. Change the inner cannula (removable piece that fits inside the outer cannula tracheostomy tube and acts as a liner), if there is one.
  3. Suction your child.
  4. Repeat the above steps, as needed.

If your child is prescribed a CoughAssist machine, use it as instructed.

The suction machine does not seem to be working. What do I do?

If the suction machine does not turn on:

  • check the power source and connection
  • ensure the wall outlet is working
  • check the power cord for damage

Obtain a backup suction machine and get the malfunctioning unit repaired through your respiratory vendor where you purchased.

If the motor runs, but there is no suction pressure:

  • ensure the tubing has not become disconnected
  • check for leaks or kinks in the tubing
  • check that the canister is not full
  • ensure the float shut-off is not activated
  • check for any canister cracks or leaks

If the suction machine has a low pressure:

  • use the suction machine pressure gauge to increase the pressure level
  • check the system for leaks
  • check that the suction tubing is clean
  • check that the catheter, Yankauer or tip being used is clean
  • check that the canister is not full or getting full

If the motor overheats and the motor overload protector shuts off:

  • turn the ON/OFF switch to OFF, allow the motor to cool for about five minutes and then turn it back to ON
  • inspect the A/C plug fuse and place it into a different wall outlet, if necessary
  • contact your respiratory vendor for help with the machine

Reminders

  • Ensure you have the manual suction available in the emergency tracheostomy kit.
  • Ensure the backup suction machine is charged, set appropriately and ready to go in case you need it.
  • Keep the number of your respiratory vendor on hand in case you need repairs or replacement supplies.
Last updated: November 10th 2023