What is a suction machine?

A Suction Machine is a device for removing liquids or gases by suction from the body cavities or airways, such as mucus or serum. Often used in the nose and throat to clear airways, a partial vacuum is created to draw out fluids and gases to enable proper respiration.

The vacuum pump of a suction machine is connected to a collection canister by a tube and filter. When operated, the machine creates a partial vacuum within the bottle drawing materials from the body cavity and into the canister.

Suction machines vary in size and strength with a variety of catheters, filters, and tips for effective use. Suction units are even available form emergency personnel such as EMS for easy transport and care.

Helpful tips when using a Suction Machine or Aspirator

Suctioning is needed when mucus in the airway becomes too thick or too much to be coughed out or if a person is physically unable to remove the secretions by themselves.

Suctioning is usually needed for most people two to three times a day. There are a few signs that a patient would present when suctioning would be needed:

• A blue color is visible seen around the lips or mouth. This may be a sign that the patient is not receiving enough oxygen thru there airways
• The airflow in and out from the patient is reduced.
• The patient is unable to relax and is moving around.
• The patient is tightening their chest and throat muscles
• The patient's nostrils flare out when breathing in.
• You can hear a bubbling noise when they are breathing.

The use of a suction machine should be taught to everyone who will care for the patient. This is the most difficult part of taking care of the tracheostomy patient, but anyone can learn to operate the machine.

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Peripheral Artery Occlusive Disease

Obstruction of large arteries and veins to the extremities is known as peripheral artery occlusive disease, or PAD. This condition is common among the diabetic and elder populations and affects over 10 million Americans. There are a number of potential causes of PAD many of which can be affected by patient lifestyle changes.

Peripheral artery occlusive disease results in the manifestation of various symptoms in the extremities. The result of arterial obstruction can lead to impeded functioning, mild to severe pain, or even tissue breakdown. Often, PAD manifests in the legs and feet leading to discoloration, swelling, and pain.

Contributing factors to the onset of peripheral artery occlusive disease are smoking and adequate nutrition. Though this is not a determining factor in manifestation of PAD, these are certainly influential and can increase the likelihood of symptom occurrence. The positive side to this is that both nutrition and smoking can be affected by the individual so they may have a positive influence on condition treatment.

Treatment for peripheral artery occlusive disease can include minor lifestyle changes through highly complicated surgery. Changes like diet and exercise can help to increase overall general health and provide a foundation for treatment and recovery. In severe cases, invasive procedures such as angioplasty, plaque excision, or bypass may be required to alleviate blockages and increase blood flow to the affected area. In rare instances, severity of condition may require amputation.