Suction tubing is a medical device used to clear obstructions from a patient’s airway or manage fluids in clinical or home settings. The system operates by generating a negative pressure, or vacuum, which pulls substances like mucus, blood, or saliva away from the patient. Its primary function is to ensure an unobstructed airway, supporting breathing for individuals who cannot clear secretions on their own. Proper connection is paramount because any leak compromises the vacuum, rendering the equipment ineffective.
Identifying Necessary Components
The suction system is built from three main components that work together to create the necessary vacuum and safely collect aspirated fluids. The first component is the suction machine or pump, which is the power source that generates the negative pressure. This machine contains the motor and the controls for adjusting the vacuum level.
The second component is the collection canister, which acts as a fluid reservoir to contain aspirated material. The canister lid features two distinct ports for tubing attachment. One port, designated the “machine port” or “vacuum port,” connects directly to the suction pump to draw air out and create the vacuum.
The third component is the patient tubing, the long, flexible tube that connects the collection canister to the suction tip interfacing with the patient. This tubing connects to the canister’s second port, labeled the “patient port.” Misconnecting the patient tubing to the vacuum port is a common error that can lead to fluid entering the machine. Many systems also include a hydrophobic filter placed between the canister and the machine to prevent fluid or contaminants from reaching the pump motor.
Step-by-Step Assembly of the System
The assembly process begins by securely placing the collection canister into its holder or bracket on the suction machine, ensuring it is stable and upright. Next, the short length of connection tubing must be attached, linking the machine to the collection canister. One end of this tubing is pushed onto the machine’s vacuum inlet, and the other end connects to the designated machine port on the canister lid.
After the machine-to-canister connection is firm, attach the patient tubing to the patient port on the canister lid. This port is the inlet where aspirated fluids enter the collection system. All connections rely on a friction fit, meaning the tubing should slide onto the plastic ports snugly to form an airtight seal.
Throughout the assembly, ensure the tubing is free from any kinks, bends, or excessive stretching that could restrict airflow and compromise the vacuum. The canister lid must be firmly snapped or twisted into place, as a loose lid is a primary source of air leaks that prevents adequate suction. Once all connections are made, the system forms a sealed pathway from the patient interface to the collection jar and the vacuum pump.
Verifying Suction Strength and Connection Integrity
With the system fully assembled, power on the suction machine using the main switch. Use the vacuum regulator knob to set the appropriate pressure level, which is displayed on the machine’s gauge, often measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). For adult suctioning, a range of 80 to 120 mmHg is typical, while surgical applications may require up to 300 mmHg.
To perform a functional check, the open end of the patient tubing or catheter should be momentarily occluded, such as by pressing the tip against a gloved finger. When occluded, the vacuum gauge needle should rapidly rise to the pre-set pressure level, confirming the system is generating negative pressure and that the connections are sealed. If the gauge does not register the correct pressure or if the suction feels weak, the integrity of the setup must be immediately checked.
Lost suction is most often caused by a leak, requiring a systematic check to ensure the canister lid is sealed correctly, the tubing is not cracked, and connections are tight. A kinked or collapsed piece of tubing will also prevent suction, so all tubing runs must be visually inspected. If the motor is running but no suction is generated, the canister’s internal float valve may have activated or the filter may be wet, requiring replacement or emptying the canister.