Suction Catheters

Suction Catheters

Usually flexible plastic tubes.

Open-Tipped Suction Catheter

May be more effective for removing thick mucus plugs.

Whistle-Tipped Suction Catheter

May cause less irritation to respiratory tissues.

Suction Catheter Size (French, Fr)

Depends on client age, suctioning type, and airway size.

Suction Catheter Size – Infants

5–8 Fr.

Suction Catheter Size – Children

8–10 Fr.

Suction Catheter Size – Adults (Nasopharyngeal/Nasotracheal)

10–14 Fr.

Suction Catheter Size – Adults (Tracheostomy/ET Tube)

12–14 Fr.

Suction Catheter Size – Oral Suctioning

Yankauer (larger, rigid).

Suction Pressure (Definition)

The negative pressure produced to remove airway secretions.

Portable Suction Unit Pressure – Adult

10–15 cmHg.

Portable Suction Unit Pressure – Neonate

6–8 cmHg.

Portable Suction Unit Pressure – Infant

8–10 cmHg.

Portable Suction Unit Pressure – Child

8–10 cmHg.

Portable Suction Unit Pressure – Adolescent

8–10 cmHg.

Wall Suction Pressure – Adult

100–150 mmHg.

Wall Suction Pressure – Child

80–120 mmHg.

Wall Suction Pressure – Infant/Neonate

60–100 mmHg.