Name of the Procedure:

Common Name:

• Oral Suctioning

Technical/Medical Term:

• Oropharyngeal Suction Catheter (HCPCS Code: A4628)

Summary

Oropharyngeal suctioning is a medical procedure used to clear secretions, fluids, and other obstructions from the throat and mouth. This helps maintain an open airway and ensures adequate breathing.

Purpose

Medical Conditions Addressed:

• Respiratory distress
• Ineffective cough
• Excessive saliva or mucus production
• Postoperative care
• Acute respiratory conditions

Goals/Expected Outcomes:

• Clear airway passages
• Prevent aspiration and respiratory infections
• Improve breathing and oxygenation
• Enhance patient comfort

Indications

Specific Symptoms/Conditions:

• Difficulty breathing due to secretions
• Gurgling or choking sounds
• Diminished breath sounds due to blockage
• Visible secretions in the mouth or throat

Patient Criteria:

• Patients with neuromuscular disorders
• Postoperative patients
• Those with impaired swallowing or consciousness
• Patients requiring ventilatory support

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• No specific preparation is generally needed
• Inform the patient about the process to reduce anxiety
• Position the patient comfortably, often in a semi-Fowler’s position

Diagnostic Tests/Assessments:

• Basic respiratory assessment
• Auscultation of lung sounds
• Vital signs monitoring

Procedure Description

Steps Involved:

1. Wash hands and wear gloves.
2. Explain the procedure to the patient.
3. Position the patient comfortably, usually seated upright.
4. Insert the suction catheter into the patient’s mouth, avoiding the back of the throat to prevent gagging.
5. Apply gentle suction while withdrawing the catheter.
6. Monitor the patient for signs of distress and stoppage of secretions.

Tools/Equipment:

• Suction catheter
• Suction machine or device
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves and mask

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Generally, no anesthesia or sedation is required.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 5 to 10 minutes.

Setting

Oropharyngeal suctioning can be performed in various settings:

• Hospital (particularly in ICU or postoperative units)
• Outpatient clinics
• At home (with trained caregivers)

Personnel

Healthcare professionals involved include:

• Nurses
• Respiratory therapists
• Occasionally, physicians or trained caregivers

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Discomfort
• Gagging or coughing
• Minor bleeding from the oral mucosa

Rare Complications:

• Aspiration pneumonia
• Hypoxia if improperly performed
• Infections

Management of Complications:

• Monitoring and supportive measures
• If infection occurs, antibiotics may be prescribed

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Immediate relief from respiratory distress
• Prevention of airway obstruction and related complications
• Improved oxygenation

Time to Realize Benefits:

• Benefits are typically realized immediately after the procedure.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• Monitor respiratory status
• Encourage hydration to thin secretions

Expected Recovery Time:

• Recovery is immediate, with no long-term restrictions

Follow-Up:

• Regular assessments for patients with ongoing needs

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• Hydration to thin secretions
• Humidified air or aerosol therapy
• Chest physiotherapy

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• Alternatives can be less invasive, but may not be as immediately effective at clearing the airway.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Patients may feel discomfort or mild gagging
• Sensation of suctioning, which might be slightly unpleasant

After the Procedure:

• Generally, patients will feel relief from clearing of the airways
• Pain management is typically not necessary, but comfort can be enhanced by a calm environment.

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