As a front-line paramedic, you know how important oral and nasal suctioning can be in patient outcome. How else are you going to clear that airway, if not through an effective and efficient portable suction unit? From respiratory emergencies, such as pulmonary edema, to traumatic injuries, there is no better way to clear an airway than through prompt suctioning.

The field of EMS is governed by procedures. Because you work in a fast-paced, high-intensity arena, you don’t have time to contemplate each step in an emergency. Much of your response must be instinctual, based on training, education, and practice. Which is why the use of your portable suction unit should be incorporated into the preparation, response, and post-response phase of respiratory distress emergencies. Here are some considerations when establishing suction procedures:

As a paramedic tasked with performing lifesaving treatments in the field, you know that every procedure you perform has potential complications. The tenuous IV you establish in the geriatric patient may blow; the tube may become dislodged during transport; or the cardiac rhythm may simply refuse to convert, no matter what medication you try. These are just a few of the hurdles you face as a paramedic administering care in emergency situations. And even the simplest of treatments can pose complications under the trying conditions in which you work.

Here’s a question: If your car broke down, would you feel comfortable fixing it yourself, even if you had no idea how an internal combustion engine works? I doubt it. Knowing the inner workings of a system is key to identifying problems within the system and even more important to fixing said problems.

The boy had been struck while darting his bike across the busy intersection. He failed to see the minivan approaching the turn lane. Just as he thought he had made it safely across, the minivan appeared suddenly, striking him and knocking him twenty feet from his bike. The height of the minivan’s bumper was directly in line with the boy’s head. The result? Massive facial trauma resulting in one of the most difficult airways of your career. Fortunately, you had a well-stocked trauma bag, containing everything you’ll need to secure the airway, and the foresight to carry one of your most essential airway tools: your portable suction unit.

The GI bleed had been going on for some time. By the time you reach the patient – a frail little lady pushing ninety – she was vomiting bright red blood down the front of her nightgown. She was a mess, and having a hard time breathing due to the thick, clotted vomitus streaming from her mouth and nose. You quickly assemble your equipment, which includes a first-rate portable suction unit, and get to work.

It’s a Sunday morning and shift has just begun. You’re chatting over coffee with your coworkers as the new rookie stumbles through the door, arms loaded down with brand new gear and a shiny, unmarred helmet atop his head. You’re whisked back to your first day on the job. Has it really been ten years? How did so much time pass without you noticing?

The hallmark of a great hospital lies in its ability to consistently deliver high-quality patient care. This can only be possible with the proper resources, including staff, medical equipment and supplies, and physical space.

When purchasing durable medical equipment for your hospital, you want to be sure that your money is going to a product that best fits your needs. With growing competition and ever-improving technology, chances are that you will have a wide range of choices when making your selection.