measuring maximum length of insertion for suctioning

[tniuqs]

If you read 4 different text books you'll get 4 different answers. I can also guarantee the answers will differ from an RN or RRT exam also.

The two most common are:

Until you feel resistance

and

1 cm past the end of the ETT

Even with the resistance felt, you should pull back before applying suction. You don't want to suck up lung tissue or tear it to where blood will be your primary secretions.

I never advocate "until you feel resistance" with a pedi or infant. For those you measure to the mm. Leaving skid marks on their carina is something you want to avoid.

sorry missed this post vent.

Kids are a real different deal fer certian.

[VentMedic]

Here's an interesting skills check off from Oregon:

http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/ph/ems/certific/...rence_guide.pdf

page 26

10. Advances the catheter as far as possible.

I can advance a bronchoscope in pretty far but that is through direct visualization and care. I would not even think of doing that blindly with a suction catheter. One must be aware of what they are poking in the lungs.

So, take your pick of any or all of the possible correct answers. Unfortunately for some questions, the correct answer for the test may not always be the practical answer for a real situation. That's where your own judgement and commonsense takes over.

[Dustdevil]

10. Advances the catheter as far as possible.

:shock:

[tniuqs]

Watch for Bradycardias ..... remember why ?

Ok I ask one question and no one replys .... pfft

vent and dust shush up.

Let some others present a possible answer.

[TDP]

that might give somewhat of a hint

[mrmeaner]

Doesn't Scaramedic live in Oregon. Where has Scara been, BTW?

[Dustdevil]

Doesn't Scaramedic live in Oregon. Where has Scara been, BTW?

School just started back, and I bet he's getting his arse kicked. I believe this is his senior year.

[tniuqs]

sweet diagram.

[Richard B the EMT]

A tip for using suctioning that I use is, when suctioning, hold your breath. If you feel a bit starved for oxygen, imagine how the patient feels. Remember, the suctioning device isn't just pulling out the blocking liquid gunk, but is also pulling out that breathable 21% oxygen from room air.

[firedoc5]

I know it's been changed and retaught, and possibly changed back, but for testing purpose the measurement to suction with an oralpharangeal airway in place was to measure from the corner of the mouth to the tracheas of the ear. For the ET insertion was, like already mentioned, was insert until you feel resistance.

VentMedic may know this one. It was once argued to never insert a suction cath. past the end of the ET tube. Is that still something discussed? I might have missed that in an earlier post.