At the end of this chapter, you will be able to:
- understand when to use oral suctioning
- demonstrate how to perform oral suctioning
Oral suctioning is done to clear secretions (mucus) from the mouth if a child is unable to clear it on their own through coughing or blowing their nose. A hard-plastic tip with a handle called a Yankauer is usually used to suction secretions in the mouth.
Gather your equipment and supplies.
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If your child uses an oximeter, make sure it is on and provides an accurate reading.
Have oxygen available, if prescribed by your child's health-care team.
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Make sure the suction machine is at the correct setting.
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Wash your hands well. Parents and caregivers do not need to wear gloves, although you may choose to do so if you have them. If you have a home nurse visiting, they will bring their own gloves and wear them.
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Fill a clean container with sterile water or saline.
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Make sure your child is in a comfortable position (lying or sitting).
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Attach the suction tubing to a clean catheter or Yankauer (paediatric sized). Keep the catheter or Yankauer in clean casing until just before use.
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Insert the catheter or Yankauer into the mouth to remove any mucus your child has coughed up. Hold the suction control port with your thumb (if your Yankauer has one) and slowly remove the Yankauer or the catheter from the mouth. Only hold down the suction control port for up to 10 seconds at a time.
NOTE: To prevent any gagging, suction along the edges of the mouth. Ensure the catheter is not touching anything in the mouth before you apply suction pressure.
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Flush the Yankauer or catheter well by dipping the adaptor into sterile water or saline and suctioning. If a catheter was used, discard it. If a Yankauer was used, replace the cover on it. Discard water.
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Assess and tend to your child’s respiratory status and oxygen needs.
Turn off the suction unit.
Empty and clean the suction drainage bottles and containers, if needed.
Wash hands well.
Prepare the suction equipment and supplies for the next use.
