How Long Should Suction be Applied During Withdrawal of a Suction Catheter?

Question:

What is the maximum duration for applying suction during the withdrawal of a suction catheter?

Answer:

The maximum duration for applying suction during the withdrawal of a suction catheter should not exceed 15 seconds.

During the withdrawal of a suction catheter, it is important to limit the application of suction to a maximum of 15 seconds to ensure patient safety and prevent potential complications.

Applying suction for longer durations can result in decreased oxygen levels in the patient's airway, leading to hypoxia. Additionally, prolonged suctioning can cause damage to the delicate mucosal lining of the airway, leading to irritation and possible bleeding.

Healthcare providers adhere to the guideline of limiting suction application to 15 seconds to strike a balance between effectively clearing airway secretions and minimizing risks to the patient.