Introduction

A suction catheter is a flexible, sterile medical device designed to remove secretions, mucus, or fluids from the airway to maintain clear breathing. Widely used in hospitals, clinics, and emergency care, suction catheters play a crucial role in patient management, especially for individuals on mechanical ventilation or with a tracheostomy tube.

For buyers and wholesalers, understanding catheter size for suctioning, such as the commonly used 14 FR suction catheter, is essential to meeting the diverse needs of healthcare providers.

Suction Catheter Sizes and Uses

Suction catheters are available in multiple French (FR) sizes, which indicate the external diameter of the tube. Selecting the right catheter size for suctioning is critical to ensure both safety and efficiency.

• Common sizes: 5 FR (neonates), 8 FR (pediatrics), 10–12 FR (older children), and 14–16 FR (adults).

• 14 FR suction catheter: One of the most frequently used sizes in adult patients. It provides effective suctioning without causing excessive airway trauma.

• Length: Typically ranges from 40 to 56 cm, depending on clinical application.

For hospital buyers, stocking a full range of suction catheter sizes ensures readiness for different patient groups.

Uses of a Suction Catheter

Suction catheters are vital for:

• Clearing airway secretions in patients with limited cough reflex.

• Maintaining patency of tracheostomy or endotracheal tubes.

• Preventing respiratory complications in critical care units.

• Supporting emergency resuscitation procedures.

How to Insert a Suction Catheter?

Insertion should always be performed by trained professionals under sterile conditions:

1. Pre-oxygenate the patient, if required.

2. Lubricate the catheter tip if indicated.

3. Insert the catheter gently into the airway via the nose, mouth, endotracheal tube, or tracheostomy tube.

4. Apply suction intermittently while withdrawing the catheter in a rotating motion.

This technique minimizes trauma and reduces the risk of hypoxia.

What Size Suction Catheter is Suitable for Tracheostomy?

The appropriate size depends on the internal diameter of the tracheostomy tube.

• The general guideline is that the suction catheter’s external diameter should not exceed half the internal diameter of the airway tube.

• For most adult tracheostomy tubes, a 12 FR or 14 FR suction catheter is suitable.

• Pediatric and neonatal cases require proportionally smaller sizes to prevent airway damage.

Conclusion

The suction catheter is a critical device in airway management, with its size directly influencing patient safety and clinical outcomes. The 14 FR suction catheter remains a standard choice for adults, while smaller variations meet the needs of pediatric and neonatal care. For hospitals and clinics, ensuring a reliable supply of catheters in multiple sizes is essential to support daily operations.

At Xiamen Ticare Import and Export Co., Ltd., we provide high-quality suction catheters tailored to professional healthcare needs, with options for bulk supply and customization. Wholesalers and buyers are encouraged to contact us for product inquiries and supply solutions. GET A FREE QUOTE NOW!