Nasopharyngeal suction study reveals knowledge deficit.

Nasopharyngeal suction is carried out frequently in paediatric practice. A questionnaire survey was distributed to nurses and physiotherapists at The Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh to ascertain the extent of their knowledge in the theory and practice of suctioning. Results revealed several problem areas in use of nasopharyngeal suction at this hospital. There was significant disagreement over appropriate catheter size, suction pressure and method of suction as well as use of pre-oxygenation and knowledge of adverse effects. The results indicate that further theoretical and practical education is needed in the use of nasopharyngeal suction and that a standard method should be implemented throughout the hospital.