Comparison Between the Effect of Open and Closed Tracheal Suction Systems on Physiological Parameters of Critically Ill Patients

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Demonstrator of Critical Care and Emergency Nursing Department, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University, Egypt

2 Lecturer of Critical Care and Emergency Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University, Egypt.

3 Professors of Internal Medicine and Critical Care, Faculty of Medicine, Mansoura University

4 Professors of Critical Care and Emergency Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Mansoura University,

Abstract

Background: Endotracheal suctioning is one of the fundamental procedures practiced in intensive care units. There are
two methods used for suctioning: open and closed suction systems. There is a debate in the literature regarding which
suctioning method has a positive impact on the hemodynamic state of critically ill patients (CIPs). Aim: This study
aimed to compare the effect of open and closed tracheal suction systems on physiological parameters of CIPs. Method:
A quasi-experimental design was used to conduct the present study in two intensive care units allocated in the
Specialized Medical Hospital, at Mansoura University. A sample of 94 patients was enrolled in this study and was
randomly assigned to the closed suction group (n = 47) and the open suction group (n = 47). Data were collected using
the patients’ physiological parameters assessment tool. Results: The findings showed no statistically significant
differences between the two suctioning methods except for the diastolic blood pressure (P=0.049). A slight
improvement in patients’ physiological parameters was noticed after closed suctioning. Conclusion and
Recommendations: The open and closed suction systems are considered efficient methods for suctioning the secretion
of CIPs. This study highlights the need for further research with a large sample in different clinical settings to contribute
to the body of knowledge and evidence related to endotracheal suction.

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