Skill
Airway Suctioning (Inline Closed System)
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The selected category is identified by a yellow outline and a "Selected section" label.
Relative contraindications
Use individualized risk-benefit assessment, added precautions, or a modified approach as authorized for the patient and setting.
- Bleeding diathesis/anticoagulation (risk of mucosal bleeding)
- Elevated intracranial pressure
- Severe hypoxemia, bradycardia, or arrhythmia precipitated by suctioning—proceed with caution and preoxygenation
- Elevated intracranial pressure (ICP)
- Bronchospasm or airway instability
Sources
Supporting sources include peer-reviewed research, evidence-based clinical practice guidelines, professional standards, and foundational respiratory care references, as applicable to the skill.
- American Association for Respiratory Care (AARC). (2010). AARC clinical practice guideline: Endotracheal suctioning of mechanically ventilated patients with artificial airways 2010. Respiratory Care, 55(6), 758-764. https://doi.org/10.4187/respcare.00754