Suction

Unconscious patients are vulnerable to aspiration:

• Vomit
• Blood
• Secretions
• Foreign bodies

Use a wide bore rigid sucker and gentle suction under direct vision to remove potential aspirates (see image)

Learning Bite

If the patient is actively vomiting or if there is a significant amount of blood in the airway, turn the patient on their side and tip the trolley head down to avoid aspiration. (Not an option in c-spine injury)

Learning Bite

If there are thick secretions or undigested food, remove the suction catheter and just use the tube to avoid blockage.