What pressure is maintained for above-the-cuff suctioning to continuously suction?

For above-the-cuff suctioning in respiratory therapy, a pressure of 20 mmHg is utilized to ensure effective suction without causing damage to the airway or surrounding tissues. This pressure is sufficient to clear secretions safely while minimizing the risk of trauma. Maintaining this level of suction can effectively remove mucus and prevent airway obstruction, which is crucial in managing patients who require airway clearance techniques.

Higher pressures, such as 30 mmHg or 40 mmHg, while they may seem effective for suctioning, increase the risk of injury to the trachea and surrounding structures, causing unnecessary harm to the patient. A suction pressure of 10 mmHg is often too low to be effective in clearing secretions, making it unsuitable for this procedure. Thus, 20 mmHg strikes the appropriate balance between effectiveness and safety in above-the-cuff suctioning.