ABSTRACT
During acute/critical illness there will be periods when normal respiratory function cannot be maintained. This includes the cough reflex, which aids the removal of secretions. As a result, retention of secretion and altered gaseous exchange will occur, interfering with normal respiratory status. If this continues, over time the secretions retained may damage cilia and hinder mucus-raising properties, leading to atelectasis and infection. If non-invasive interventions such as educating patients to cough/postural drainage fail, then they may require support to remove secretions through suctioning. Suctioning is viewed as a necessary procedure for airway management (Wood, 1998). The inconsistencies of this practice are constantly being highlighted within the literature (Blackwood, 1999; Thompson, 2000). Inconsistencies are also complicated by lack of consistency amongst the evidence (Wainright and Gould, 1996). Despite available research evidence, clear protocols or guidelines are often lacking in clinical practice (Day et al., 2001).
