SUCTION ORAL AIRWAY

Perform oral airway suction when needed to clear secretions from the mouth. Casualties should also be encouraged to cough up and spit out secretions, if possible.

- Minimum: Manual suction device or improvised suction device, such as a 25cm length portion of IV tubing connected to a 60mL syringe
- Best: Rigid suction tube, suction machine, or wall suction

Guide for oral suctioning

- Gather necessary equipment.
- Ensure casualty’s head is elevated.
- Perform hand hygiene.
- Place a clean towel under casualty’s chin.
- Don additional Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) based on the casualty’s need for isolation precautions or risk of exposure to bodily fluids.
- Introduce the suction device into the casualty’s mouth along the gumline to the pharynx.
- If using manual suction, apply suction while withdrawing the device slowly, working from the back to the front of the mouth. If using a suction machine, use the lowest setting appropriate for the thickness of secretions.
- If needed, clear the suction device with sterile water or 0.9% NS, if available.
- Repeat as needed, paying attention to casualty tolerance and oxygen saturation.