Suctioning Procedure: Best Practices for Medical Professionals

Which hand should hold the suction catheter? Which hand should hold the connecting tube?

a) Right hand holds suction catheter, left hand holds connecting tube
b) Left hand holds suction catheter, right hand holds connecting tube
c) Both hands hold suction catheter
d) Both hands hold connecting tube

Answer:

In suctioning, the left hand holds the suction catheter and the right hand holds the connecting tube.

Explanation:

In the procedure of suctioning, your left hand should hold the suction catheter and your right hand should hold the connecting tube. This is considered standard procedure in most medical settings and it helps to ensure effective, safe, and sanitary suctioning. Furthermore, it enables the practitioner to maintain a sterile field while suctioning.

It is important to know which hand to use for what role in medical procedures, as it can affect the efficiency and safety of the procedure. For instance, the suction catheter is used to drain blood from the right and left internal jugular veins, as well as the right and left subclavian veins. All of these eventually drain into the superior vena cava. Therefore, the placement and handling of the suction catheter is crucial and can have significant impacts.

It is crucial that medical professionals adhere to the proper hand placement and technique when performing suctioning procedures to ensure the best outcomes for their patients. By following established guidelines and best practices, practitioners can provide safe and effective care while minimizing the risk of complications.