Endotracheal suctioning in neonates and children

: Endotracheal suction is essential to keep the respiratory capacity of the bronchial tree. The aim of this study was to establish the principles reducing potential side-effects, like hypoxia, bradycardia, hypotension, arrhythmia, nosocomial infections. Analysing the literature we have selected the following major beneficial factors: 1:2 to 2:3 cathether - tracheal tube diameter ratio, individual adjustment of the suctioning frequency, maximal duration of the procedure capped at 10-15 sec., minimal effective suctioning pressure of 80-100 mmHg. We have also determined that the following procedures should be also taken into consideration: preoxygenation (only for unstable patients), sedation and analgesia. We have concluded with the comparison of the two suction systems, pointing out that, especially for unstable patients, closed-suction system proves more suitable.