Breathing is essential, for that airway must be clear to allow oxygen to pass into the lungs. However, in some cases, patients are unable to breathe properly due to the presence of mucus or saliva in the airway. In such situations, suctioning is performed to remove these secretions and help the patient breathe comfortably.

Suction catheter, a quiet lifesaver for clear mucus, saliva, or secretions. It's used in hospitals, ambulances, or home care setups, suctioning plays a critical role in keeping airways clear and oxygen flowing. In this blog we will cover some of the important points related to suction catheter.

What Is a Suction Catheter?

A suction catheter is also known as a suction tube is a medical device used to remove mucus, saliva, blood, or other secretions from a patient’s airway. It is a thin, flexible tube which is inserted into a patient airway and one end is attached to a suction machine using a connecting tube.

Why suctioning is important

When secretions block the airway:

Breathing becomes difficult
Oxygen levels drop
Risk of infection increases

Fact: Excess airway secretions can reduce oxygen levels within minutes if not cleared properly.

What Is a Suction Catheter Used For?

Suction Catheter is used when secretion is not clear naturally by coughing or swallowing. In hospitals, suctioning is done frequently under supervision.

In home care, suction catheters are often used with portable suction machines, especially for elderly or long-term patients.

Common Medical Uses of Suction Catheter

Clearing airway mucus
Tracheostomy care
Endotracheal suctioning
Oral and nasal suction
Emergency care in ambulances
ICU and post-operative care

Tip: Always use sterile suction catheters for airway suctioning to reduce infection risk.

What Are the Different Suction Catheter Types Available?

There are different types of suction catheter, always close the correct catheter based on patient condition and care setting.

Open Suction Catheter

It is also known as open tracheal suction system is a single-use, disposable suction tube used to clear airway secretions. It is affordable and commonly used in hospital wards and home care settings.

Closed Suction Catheter

It is also known as closed tracheal suction system is used with ventilated patients to remove airway secretions. It helps reduce contamination and infection risk and is commonly used in ICU settings.

Yankauer Suction Catheter

Yankauer Suction Catheter is a rigid-tip suction device also known as oral suction catheter used for oral suctioning. It is best for removing thick secretions, blood, and fluids from the mouth during medical procedures or patient care.

How to Choose the Right Suction Catheter Size?

Choosing the correct suction catheter size is critical for patient safety and comfort. Sizes are measured in French (Fr) units.

General size guide:

Neonates: 5–6 Fr
Children: 8–10 Fr
Adults: 12–16 Fr

Warning: Using a catheter that’s too large can cause airway trauma and bleeding.

What Is Suction Catheter Size and Colour Code?

The suction catheter size and colour code system helps healthcare providers quickly identify the correct size, especially during emergencies.

Common colour codes:

6 Fr – Light Green
8 Fr – Light Blue
10 Fr – Black
12 Fr – White
14 Fr – Green
16 Fr – Orange

What Are the Main Suction Catheter Parts?

Understanding suction catheter parts helps ensure safe handling, effective suction, and patient comfort during airway clearance.

1. Funnel Connector

The funnel connector attaches the suction catheter to the suction tube or suction machine. It creates an airtight connection so negative pressure can be applied smoothly during suctioning.

2. Control Valve (Thumb Control)

The control valve allows the caregiver to start, stop, or regulate suction pressure. By covering or uncovering the valve, suction can be applied only when needed, helping prevent airway injury. Always release the valve when inserting the catheter to avoid tissue damage.

3. Flexible Catheter Tube

This long, soft tube is gently inserted into the patient’s airway (oral, nasal, or tracheostomy tube). Its flexibility allows it to follow the airway path without causing trauma, making suctioning safer and more comfortable.

4. Distal Eye (Side Holes)

The distal eye consists of one or more small openings near the catheter tip. These holes suction mucus and secretions efficiently while reducing the risk of the catheter sticking to airway walls.

How to Use a Suction Catheter Safely?

Safe suction catheter use is essential to avoid complications.

Basic safety steps:

Wash hands and wear gloves
Use sterile catheter
Apply suction only while withdrawing
Limit suction time to 10–15 seconds
Dispose catheter after use (if disposable)

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Using a Suction Catheter

Choosing the wrong catheter size

Applying suction for too long
Reusing disposable catheters
Skipping proper hygiene
Using high suction pressure unnecessarily

Why Buy Suction Catheters Online from SurgiNatal?

A suction catheter may look simple, but using the right type, size, colour code, and technique makes all the difference in patient care. Whether for hospital use or home care, understanding these basics ensures safety, comfort, and effective airway clearance. At SurgiNatal, you get genuine medical-grade suction catheter and suction machines from trusted brands like Romsons, Polymed, Nipro, and Dispovan, at wholesale pricing, with PAN India delivery.

You can also buy medical and surgical products like foley catheters, gauze bandages, sutures, and diagnosis instruments online from SurgiNatal.