In general, give oxygen for 30-60 seconds prior to suctioning. If you must suction them repeatedly or the first suctioning attempt fails, withdraw the catheter and oxygenate the patient again.

Do you Hyperoxygenate before and after suctioning?

Hyperoxygenating the patient before suctioning and allowing them to rest in between suctioning attempts can reduce the chances of hypoxia. Injury to the mucus membranes and bleeding can also occur.

Why do you hyperventilate a patient prior to suctioning?

Hyperventilation pre-suction may reduce hypoxaemia related to suction and shorten stabilisation and recovery times.