Suctioning is the removal of saliva, mucous or vomit by gentle vacuum. When a child is unable to cough or clear their own secretions, they may require assistance with suctioning secretions from their nose, mouth or endotracheal tube (ETT). Suctioning is necessary to prevent secretions from blocking the child’s airway.
Why
- To remove saliva and mucous out of the child’s nose or mouth
- To assist the child to cough for themselves
- To prevent a blockage in the airway
Types of suction
Yankauer
A nurse will use a Yankauer suction catheter to suction saliva and mucous out of your child’s mouth
Suction Catheter
A nurse will use a suction catheter to suction the fluid and mucous out of your child’s nostrils, mouth and ETT (breathing tube).
