Suctioning Your Tracheostomy

Suctioning keeps your trach tube clear of excess mucus. Suction as instructed by your healthcare provider. Follow these guidelines and any guidelines you are given. 

Step 1. Collect your supplies

• Find a clean, well-lighted space near a sink and mirror. Collect your supplies: a suction machine, a clean suction catheter, and a small bowl of distilled water.
• Wash your hands with soap and clean, running water. If water is not available, clean your hands with a waterless gel-based alcohol cleanser. Then, put on clean, disposable, powderless gloves.

Step 2. Prepare to suction

• Turn on the suction machine to the setting that your healthcare team gave you.
• Attach the suction catheter to the suction machine. Dip the catheter tip into the distilled water to assure the suction is working.

Step 3. Insert the catheter

• Take a few deep breaths to fill your lungs with oxygen.
• Gently insert the catheter into your trach tube. While you insert the catheter, do not suction. Stop inserting the catheter when you start to cough.

Step 4.  Apply suction

To apply suction, cover and uncover the suction valve on the catheter.

• Apply suction. At the same time, slowly pull the catheter out of your trach tube. Move the catheter tip in a circle as you pull the catheter out.
• The catheter should be out of your trach tube within 5 to 10 seconds. If you need to suction more, relax and breathe for a few minutes before you start again. 
• When you have finished suctioning, turn off the suction machine. Discard the used catheter, water, and gloves.

© The StayWell Company, LLC. 800 Township Line Road, Yardley, PA 19067. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions. This information has been modified by your health care provider with permission from the publisher.