Suctioning

Question 1

What is the purpose of suctioning in patients with an artificial airway?

Answer 1

To mobilise secretions from the trachea by aspiration

A patient with an artificial airway is not capable of effective coughing.

Question 2

Define suctioning.

Answer 2

The application of negative pressure to remove secretions from the airway

This is necessary because patients with artificial airways cannot cough effectively.

Question 3

True or false: A patient with an artificial airway can effectively cough to clear secretions.

Answer 3

FALSE

Such patients require suctioning to mobilise secretions from the trachea.