From the Research
Suctioning a stoma should be limited to the minimum time necessary to effectively remove secretions, with no specific time limit universally agreed upon, but generally not exceeding 10-15 seconds per attempt, as prolonged suctioning can cause tissue damage and other complications 1. When suctioning a stoma, it is essential to prepare all necessary equipment, including a suction catheter, gloves, and a clean container for secretions. The suction pressure should be set appropriately to effectively remove secretions without causing tissue damage. Some key considerations for stoma care include:
- Pre- and postoperative patient education to facilitate independence in stoma care and resumption of normal activities 2
- Understanding the reasons for stoma formation, types of stoma, and appliances available to educate and support patients 3
- Awareness of potential complications, such as ischemia/necrosis, fluid and electrolyte imbalances, mucocutaneous separation, and retraction, and their management 2 Allowing at least 30-60 seconds between suction attempts can help the patient recover and reoxygenate, reducing the risk of complications. Monitoring the patient for signs of distress, such as decreased oxygen saturation, increased heart rate, or respiratory difficulty, during the procedure is crucial. If secretions are thick, consider using saline instillation before suctioning to help loosen them, but avoid routine saline use as it can increase infection risk and decrease oxygen saturation 1.