How to undertake suctioning of the mouth in the adult
This module provides practical guidance for nurses and healthcare practitioners on how to undertake suctioning of the mouth in the adult. It explains how to safely clear the mouth of oral secretions using a suction catheter and suction unit to keep the airway patent. Learning aims and intended outcomes After completing the module, you should be able to: List the equipment needed to undertake oral suctioning. Recognise that oral suctioning should never be applied blindly, that is without inspecting the mouth before, during or after suctioning. Understand the need to apply oral suctioning gently to avoid damaging the oral cavity. Recognise that oral suctioning can be distressing to the person receiving care and that compassion and patience are needed when undertaking this procedure. Disclaimer Please note that information provided by RCNi Learning is not sufficient to ensure competence in the skill. Assessment of competence should take place in line with local practice. Practice should always align with local protocols and procedures, latest guidelines and any regulatory code. All modules should currently be viewed together with available national and local Covid-19 guidelines. For advice, go to www.rcn.org.uk/covid-19
Resource last reviewed
27 Feb 2025
