Potential hazards of tracheobronchial suctioning.
Tracheobronchial suctioning is a routine practice frequently carried out in intensive care units (ICUs). It is required when the normal coughing mechanism is inadequate or disrupted; for example, where there is underlying respiratory or neurological disease, or where the cough is deliberately suppressed by sedative, muscle relaxants or anaesthetic agents while a patient is undergoing intermittent positive pressure ventilation. The procedure is carried out via a nasotracheal, orotracheal or tracheostomy tube. During the performance of this intervention, the skilled nurse is aware of the risks to which the patient is exposed and endeavours to prevent or minimise possible complications. In the following account of complications that may occur during or as a result of the procedure these have been classified as immediate, intermediate and later complications, as shown in Table 2. The purpose is to stimulate greater awareness of the hazards involved in this common everyday practice in intensive care units.
Fiorentini
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D002985:Clinical Protocols; D003422:Critical Care / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D007442:Intubation, Intratracheal / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000451:nursing; D013396:Suction / Q000009:adverse effects* / Q000451:nursing