Effect of reusing suction catheters on the occurrence of pneumonia in children

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine whether disposable suction catheters can be reused in the same patient for a 24-hour period without affecting the incidence of pneumonia. DESIGN: The study design was a randomized controlled trial. SETTING: The study was conducted in the pediatric intensive care unit of a tertiary pediatric center. SAMPLE: Subjects included 486 children with an endotracheal tube in place. OUTCOME MEASURES: The development of pneumonia, diagnosed with radiographic and clinical evidence, was the measure. Cost analysis was also undertaken. METHOD: Subjects in the study group (n = 241) were suctioned using the same catheter for a 24-hour period. Those in the ..