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.