PROCEDURE CHECKLIST

Chapter 35: Performing Tracheostomy or Endotracheal Suctioning Using

Inline Suctioning Equipment

Check (9) Yes or No

PROCEDURE STEPS Yes No COMMENTS

1. Prepares the equipment. An in-line suction unit is
only available for patients on a mechanical ventilator.
Most agencies require the respiratory therapy
department to setup the in-line suction equipment. If
this is not your agency’s policy, performs the following
to prepare equipment for future use. These steps need
to be performed only one time per day.
a. Opens the in-line suction catheter using sterile
technique.
b. Removes the adapter on the ventilator tubing.
c. Attaches the in-line suction catheter equipment
to the ventilator tubing.
d. Reconnects the adapter on the ventilator tubing.
e. Attaches the other end of the in-line suction
catheter to the connection tubing.
2. Positions the patient in semi-Fowler’s position,
unless contraindicated.
3. Places linen-saver pad or towel on patient’s chest.
4. Puts on face shield or goggles.
5. Turns on the wall suction or portable suction
machine and adjusts the pressure regulator according to
agency policy (typically 100 to 120 mm Hg for adults,
95 to 110 mm Hg for children, and 50 to 95 mm Hg for
infants).
6. Hyperoxygenates the patient according to agency
policy.
7. Dons clean procedure gloves.
8. If a lock is present on the suction control port,
unlocks it.
9. With the dominant hand, picks up the suction
catheter contained within the plastic sleeve.
10. Gently inserts the suction catheter into the airway
by maneuvering the catheter within the sterile sleeve.
11. Advances the suction catheter into the airway,
being careful not to force the catheter. Advances the
catheter until meeting resistance.
12. Applies suction by depressing the button over the
suction control port, while withdrawing the catheter.
Makes sure to apply suction for no longer than 10

Copyright © 2007, F. A. Davis Company, Wilkinson & Van Leuven/Procedure Checklists for Fundamentals of Nursing
seconds.
13. Withdraws the in-line suction catheter completely
into the sleeve. The indicator line on the catheter
should appear through the sleeve.
14. Attaches the prefilled, 10-mL container of normal
saline solution to the saline port located on the in-line
equipment.
15. Squeezes the 10-mL container of normal saline
while applying suction.
16. Locks the suction regulator port.

Recommendation: Pass ______ Needs more practice ______

Student: Date:

Instructor: Date:

Copyright © 2007, F. A. Davis Company, Wilkinson & Van Leuven/Procedure Checklists for Fundamentals of Nursing