Comparison of open and closed suction on safety, efficacy and nursing time in a paediatric intensive care unit

Abstract

Background: Endotracheal suctioning (ETS) is one of the most common procedures performed in the paediatric intensive care. The two methods of endotracheal suctioning used are known as open and closed suction, but neither method has been shown to be the superior suction method in the Paediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU). Purpose: The primary purpose was to compare open and closed suction methods from a physiological, safety and staff resource perspective. Methods: All paediatric intensive care patients with an endotracheal tube were included. Between June and September 2011 alternative months were nominated as open or closed suction months. Data were prospectively collected including suction..