Airway management is one of the most critical responsibilities in respiratory care. To ensure adequate ventilation and oxygenation, secretions that obstruct the upper airway must be quickly and safely removed.
One of the most widely used tools for this purpose is the Yankauer suction catheter, a simple yet highly effective device found in virtually every hospital and emergency care setting.
What is a Yankauer Suction Catheter?
A Yankauer suction catheter is a rigid, curved suction instrument made of durable plastic, designed to clear secretions such as saliva, mucus, or blood from the mouth and throat. It connects to suction tubing and a vacuum source, allowing clinicians to rapidly remove fluids that might otherwise obstruct breathing or complicate medical procedures.
The tip of the Yankauer is slightly rounded with side holes, reducing the risk of damaging delicate oral and pharyngeal tissues while providing effective suction. It is commonly referred to as an oropharyngeal suction tool.
Clinical Applications
The Yankauer suction catheter has a variety of uses in both routine and emergency care:
- Airway clearance – Removes secretions in patients who cannot cough or swallow effectively.
- Surgical procedures – Keeps the surgical field clear of blood and secretions.
- Emergency response – Essential in trauma and cardiac arrest situations to maintain airway patency.
- Critical care – Used in mechanically ventilated patients for airway hygiene.
Relevance to Respiratory Therapists
For respiratory therapists, the Yankauer suction catheter is an indispensable tool in daily practice. Its relevance includes:
- Airway management: Ensures that patients maintain a clear and open airway, which is fundamental for effective ventilation and oxygenation.
- Aspiration prevention: Helps reduce the risk of aspiration pneumonia in patients with impaired airway protective reflexes.
- Patient safety: Facilitates procedures such as intubation, extubation, and tracheostomy care by preventing obstruction from secretions.
- Emergency preparedness: Readily available in code carts and emergency kits, ensuring therapists can act quickly during resuscitation or airway compromise.
Advantages of the Yankauer
- Easy to use and widely available
- Durable, disposable design prevents cross-contamination
- Safe tip minimizes mucosal trauma
- Provides efficient suction for large volumes of fluid
Yankauer Suctioning Practice Questions
1. What is the primary use of a Yankauer suction device?
To remove oropharyngeal secretions in patients who can cough but cannot effectively clear their own secretions, such as after oral surgery or stroke.
2. What is another name for the Yankauer suction device?
Tonsil tip suction catheter.
3. Which patients benefit most from Yankauer suctioning?
Those with oral or facial trauma, post-oral surgery, neurovascular injury, cerebrovascular accidents, or impaired swallowing.
4. Why is the Yankauer suction device especially useful compared to standard suction catheters?
It can handle large volumes of thick oral secretions more effectively.
5. What is the appropriate suction pressure setting for adults during oral suctioning?
100–150 mmHg.
6. What is the first step in the Yankauer suctioning procedure?
Identify the patient and perform an assessment.
7. What personal protective equipment (PPE) should be used during Yankauer suctioning?
Gloves, mask, face shield (if splashing is expected), and hand hygiene.
8. How should the patient be positioned before beginning oral suctioning with a Yankauer?
Place the patient in semi-Fowler’s or high-Fowler’s position.
9. Why is it important to check and monitor SpO₂ during suctioning?
To ensure the patient is maintaining adequate oxygenation throughout the procedure.
10. What is the purpose of testing the Yankauer in a cup of water before suctioning?
To ensure the device is functioning and to lubricate the tip.
11. How should the Yankauer suction catheter be moved during suctioning?
Along the gum line and around the mouth to avoid trauma to the oral mucosa.
12. What should the patient be encouraged to do during the suctioning procedure?
Cough, to help mobilize secretions for easier removal.
13. What should be done with the Yankauer after use if it will be reused on the same patient?
Rinse with sterile water or saline and store in a non-airtight container.
14. What patient position is recommended after Yankauer suctioning is completed?
Side-lying or Sims position to encourage drainage of secretions from the pharynx.
15. Why do patients with artificial airways require Yankauer suctioning?
To maintain oral hygiene and prevent secretion buildup in the mouth.
16. TRUE or FALSE: Patients should be taught to set the suction to the highest level for oropharyngeal suctioning.
FALSE; Excessive suction pressure can cause mucosal injury and should be avoided.
17. TRUE or FALSE: The clinician should avoid contacting the back of the patient’s throat with the Yankauer catheter.
TRUE; Contact with the back of the throat may trigger the gag reflex.
18. What type of secretions is the Yankauer suction catheter most effective at removing?
Thick and copious oral secretions.
19. TRUE or FALSE: A stroke patient who cannot clear secretions from the mouth is at risk for airway obstruction.
TRUE; Inability to clear secretions can result in blockage of the airway.
20. What is the definition of hypoxemia?
Low oxygen tension (PaO₂) in the blood.
21. What signs may indicate hypoxia in a stroke patient who has difficulty communicating?
Pallor, pulse oximetry reading of 88%, and a pulse rate of 110 bpm.
22. Why is a Yankauer (tonsillar tip) suction catheter preferred over a standard catheter for a stroke patient with thick oral secretions?
It can handle large volumes of copious and thick secretions more effectively than a standard suction catheter.
23. What is the purpose of encouraging the patient to cough during oropharyngeal suctioning?
To mobilize secretions into the mouth for easier removal.
24. Which of the following is an indication that oropharyngeal suctioning was effective?
Clear or normal breath sounds on auscultation.
25. What four interventions should be taken if a patient’s respiratory distress worsens during suctioning?
Suction deeper or consider nasal/tracheal suctioning, assess for airway protection needs, provide supplemental oxygen, and notify the healthcare provider.
26. What steps should be taken if blood is observed in the suctioned secretions?
Assess for oral trauma, reduce suction pressure, inspect the catheter tip for damage, and increase frequency of oral hygiene.
27. A stroke patient with aspiration pneumonia shows signs such as persistent coughing, restlessness, and drooling. What does this indicate?
The need for oropharyngeal suctioning to clear secretions and maintain airway patency.
28. What type of aseptic technique is used when performing oropharyngeal suctioning with a Yankauer catheter?
Clean technique.
29. After oropharyngeal suctioning, a UCP reports the patient is having more difficulty breathing. What should the clinician do first?
Assess the patient’s respiratory status to determine the cause and severity of the issue.
30. Why might a gastric tube be recommended for a patient with difficulty swallowing after a stroke?
To prevent aspiration and ensure adequate nutrition while minimizing the risk of respiratory complications.
31. What is one key goal when using a Yankauer suction catheter in a patient with aspiration pneumonia?
To remove pooled secretions and reduce the risk of airway obstruction or further infection.
32. How often should the Yankauer suction catheter be rinsed and stored when used repeatedly for the same patient?
After each use, it should be rinsed with water or saline and stored in a non-airtight container.
33. What is the most appropriate patient position to help prevent aspiration after oral suctioning?
Side-lying or Sims position.
34. What might excessive drooling in a neurologically impaired patient indicate?
An inability to manage oral secretions, requiring suctioning intervention.
35. What complication can arise from improper suction pressure during oral suctioning?
Oral mucosal trauma or bleeding.
36. Why is it important to monitor SpO₂ levels during oral suctioning?
To detect hypoxemia and intervene if oxygen saturation drops.
37. What type of suction catheter should not be used for thick or copious oral secretions?
A standard or flexible suction catheter.
38. Which condition is most likely to require frequent oropharyngeal suctioning?
Cerebrovascular accident (CVA) with impaired swallowing.
39. What is the function of the Yankauer suction catheter in patients with tracheostomy?
To maintain oral hygiene and remove upper airway secretions that could pose an aspiration risk.
40. What is the safest approach to teaching a patient self-oropharyngeal suctioning?
Demonstrate proper technique and ensure they use the correct suction pressure to avoid injury.
41. What part of the mouth should the Yankauer suction catheter follow during insertion to minimize trauma?
Along the gum line.
42. What is the appropriate suction pressure range for adults when using a Yankauer catheter?
100–150 mmHg.
43. Why is it important to test the Yankauer catheter in a cup of sterile water before use?
To verify suction functionality and lubricate the tip.
44. Which personal protective equipment (PPE) is necessary during oropharyngeal suctioning?
Gloves, mask, and face shield (especially if splashing is expected).
45. What is the rationale for placing the patient in semi-Fowler’s or high-Fowler’s position before suctioning?
To promote optimal drainage and reduce the risk of aspiration.
46. What should you do after completing suctioning and rinsing the Yankauer catheter?
Store it in a clean, non-airtight container for reuse with the same patient.
47. What is a possible sign that suctioning is needed in a non-verbal patient?
Gurgling sounds and visible oral secretions.
48. How can suctioning help prevent pneumonia in high-risk patients?
By removing secretions that could be aspirated into the lungs.
49. What should you do if the patient starts gagging during suctioning?
Withdraw the catheter slightly and allow the patient to recover.
50. Why is it important not to apply continuous suction during insertion of the Yankauer catheter?
To prevent mucosal trauma and minimize the risk of hypoxia.
51. How often should oral hygiene be performed for patients requiring frequent suctioning?
At least every 2–4 hours or as needed based on secretion levels.
52. What is the main difference between Yankauer and flexible suction catheters?
Yankauer is rigid and designed for oropharyngeal suctioning; flexible catheters are used for deeper airway access.
53. What condition can be caused by excessive or aggressive oral suctioning?
Oral mucosal injury or bleeding.
54. Which patients should avoid using high suction pressure settings?
Elderly patients or those with fragile mucosal linings.
55. What is the advantage of the rigid design of the Yankauer suction catheter?
It allows effective suctioning of thick, copious oral secretions.
56. When should you reassess a patient’s respiratory status during the suctioning process?
Before, during, and after the procedure.
57. What might drooling, wet-sounding voice, or coughing after eating indicate?
Accumulation of secretions and possible need for suctioning.
58. What does it mean if suctioned secretions are pink-tinged or blood-streaked?
Possible mucosal trauma from suctioning.
59. Why should suctioning be performed quickly and efficiently?
To reduce discomfort and avoid excessive oxygen desaturation.
60. Which type of patient would likely need routine Yankauer suctioning throughout the day?
Patients with impaired swallowing or neurological deficits such as after a stroke.
61. Why should a Yankauer catheter never be inserted into the trachea or lower airway?
It is not designed for tracheal suctioning and could cause injury or infection.
62. What is the function of the side holes on a Yankauer catheter?
To prevent tissue trauma by dispersing suction pressure.
63. What should you do if resistance is met while suctioning with a Yankauer catheter?
Stop and reposition the catheter to avoid damaging tissues.
64. Why is continuous monitoring of SpO₂ important during Yankauer suctioning?
To detect hypoxemia early and prevent oxygen desaturation.
65. What clinical sign may indicate that oral secretions are obstructing the airway?
Stridor, gurgling, or increased work of breathing.
66. What should be documented after performing Yankauer suctioning?
Amount, color, and consistency of secretions; patient’s response to procedure.
67. Why is oral suctioning preferred over deep suctioning in alert, cooperative patients?
It is less invasive and carries a lower risk of trauma and hypoxia.
68. What should you do if the suction machine does not activate during the procedure?
Check tubing connections, power source, and canister placement.
69. When using a Yankauer catheter, why should you avoid suctioning near the back of the throat?
To prevent triggering the gag reflex or vomiting.
70. How can you reduce anxiety in a patient during suctioning?
Explain the procedure beforehand and encourage slow, deep breaths.
71. What is the benefit of having the patient semi-reclined during Yankauer suctioning?
It facilitates drainage and improves visualization of secretions.
72. How do you know if a patient has an effective cough during suctioning?
Secretions are expectorated or moved into the mouth for easier removal.
73. In patients with dysphagia, what is the role of Yankauer suctioning?
To clear residual oral secretions and prevent aspiration.
74. When should you discard a Yankauer catheter?
If visibly soiled, cracked, or no longer functioning properly.
75. Why should suctioning be performed before oral feeding in some patients?
To prevent aspiration of secretions during swallowing.
76. What volume of secretions would justify using a Yankauer catheter over other types?
Large or thick secretions that cannot be cleared with a standard catheter.
77. What is the main safety concern with leaving a Yankauer catheter on continuous suction between uses?
It can cause the catheter to dry out and harbor bacteria.
78. Why is it important to assess breath sounds after suctioning?
To evaluate the effectiveness of secretion removal and airway clearance.
79. What could cause sudden bradycardia during Yankauer suctioning?
Vagal stimulation from suctioning near the posterior oropharynx.
80. What is a common patient complaint after frequent Yankauer suctioning?
Sore throat or irritation of the oral mucosa.
81. What action should be taken if the patient begins to gag during Yankauer suctioning?
Withdraw the catheter slightly and allow the patient to recover before resuming.
82. Why should a clinician avoid applying suction while inserting the Yankauer catheter?
To prevent trauma to the oral mucosa and soft tissues.
83. What is the primary reason for rinsing the Yankauer catheter after each use?
To prevent clogging and maintain catheter patency.
84. What type of suction system is the Yankauer typically attached to?
Wall-mounted or portable suction unit with adjustable pressure.
85. Why is patient positioning critical during Yankauer suctioning?
Proper positioning aids secretion drainage and reduces aspiration risk.
86. What infection control measure is essential before and after using a Yankauer catheter?
Performing hand hygiene and using appropriate PPE.
87. What should be done if suctioning causes oral mucosa to bleed?
Stop the procedure, assess for trauma, and notify the healthcare provider.
88. How can you reduce the risk of mucosal damage during frequent suctioning?
Limit suction duration and avoid prolonged contact with tissues.
89. What patient populations are most likely to require Yankauer suctioning?
Stroke patients, post-operative patients, and those with decreased consciousness.
90. Why is it important to assess a patient’s gag reflex before suctioning?
To evaluate aspiration risk and avoid triggering vomiting.
91. What is the proper storage method for a reusable Yankauer suction catheter?
Store in a clean, dry, non-airtight container labeled for single-patient use.
92. What should be done before using a Yankauer on a different patient?
Dispose of it and use a new, sterile Yankauer catheter.
93. What symptom might indicate that Yankauer suctioning is needed between routine assessments?
Audible gurgling or wet-sounding respirations.
94. What is the maximum recommended time for each suctioning pass?
No more than 10–15 seconds.
95. What should the clinician assess before deciding to suction a patient?
Airway patency, breath sounds, and signs of secretion accumulation.
96. How does Yankauer suctioning differ from inline suctioning in ventilated patients?
Yankauer is for oropharyngeal use; inline suction is for endotracheal suctioning.
97. What might thick, yellow secretions indicate during Yankauer suctioning?
Possible infection that requires further evaluation.
98. Why is it important to use caution in patients on anticoagulant therapy during suctioning?
They have an increased risk of bleeding from mucosal trauma.
99. What is a key benefit of a rigid Yankauer tip compared to flexible catheters?
It allows easier navigation around the oral cavity and better secretion removal.
100. What should you teach a patient who is learning to use a Yankauer catheter at home?
How to use clean technique, proper suctioning steps, and how to store the device.
Final Thoughts
Although the Yankauer suction catheter is a simple device, its role in patient care is profound. By allowing clinicians to quickly and safely remove secretions, it helps keep the airway clear, prevents aspiration, and ensures that ventilation and oxygenation remain effective.
In both routine procedures and emergency situations, this tool provides a level of efficiency and safety that is essential for protecting patients from serious complications.
For respiratory therapists, proficiency with the Yankauer is not optional—it is a fundamental skill that directly supports patient outcomes and the overall quality of respiratory care.
Written by:
John Landry is a registered respiratory therapist from Memphis, TN, and has a bachelor's degree in kinesiology. He enjoys using evidence-based research to help others breathe easier and live a healthier life.
References
- Marietta M, Semien G, Fitzgerald BM. Surgical Airway Suctioning. [Updated 2025 Apr 22]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025.