Portable suction machine (1462)

What is the suction machine for?

Secretions made by the lungs can collect in the airway and trach tube making it hard for your child to breathe.  The suction machine has a vacuum to help remove secretions.

How is it used?

• Keep the portable suction machine near your child at all times.
• The machine is part of your GO BAG.
• Put the cover tightly on the canister.  Attach canister to machine.
• Tightly connect suction tubing to canister cover.
• When the machine is plugged in, the battery is being charged.  It takes about 8 hours to fully charge.  The battery will hold a charge for 45 minutes if running non-stop while not plugged in.
• Completely block the end of the suction tubing to test and adjust the pressure

• Adjust the suction pressure by turning the knob – or +, depending if you need more or less pressure.

Troubleshooting problems at home

• Is the machine plugged in?
• Is the machine turned on?
• Is the electrical outlet working?  Plug in another electrical device to test.
• Are all tubing’s tightly attached?
• Is the machine pressure correct?
• Is the rectangular filter wet?
• Is the ball within the canister lid freely moving?
• Is there a blockage in your tubing or catheter?

How do I clean the machine?

1. Empty the contents of the jar into the toilet daily, or more often if needed.  
   
2. Wash the jar in warm soapy water, and rinse with warm water daily.  
   
3. Dry the jar with a clean towel.
   
4. Follow the Deep Cleaning Guidelines from your DME company to deep clean the canister and lid.
   
5. Replace disposable parts per your DME company’s recommendation.
   
6. Wipe the base of the unit with a damp cloth to keep it clean and free of dust.

Special directions

• Be sure to use the manual resuscitator bag, between suction passes, and when finished suctioning.
• Do not boil any parts of the machine.  
• The machine comes with a special power plug that plugs into the car charger.  Keep the machine plugged in when traveling.
• Be sure to keep the machine plugged into the wall or the car charger as much as possible.  This will keep the battery fully charged.  You will have the most power when plugged into a power sources.

Other teaching sheets that may be helpful

• # 1119 – Manual Resuscitator Bag
• # 1600 – Disinfecting Guidelines for Respiratory Equipment

For other health and wellness information, check out this resource:

https://kidshealth.org/ChildrensWi/en/parents

This sheet was created to help you care for your child or family member. It does not take the place of medical care. Talk with your healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment and follow-up.