--- title: When Should You Use an Emergency Aspirator? description: Here are some of the most common usage indications for using an emergency aspirator. image: https://blog.sscor.com/hubfs/When%20Should%20You%20Use%20an%20Emergency%20Aspirator.jpg --- [![dark-header.jpg](https://blog.sscor.com/hs-fs/hub/212347/file-1107077240.jpg?width=940&name=file-1107077240.jpg "dark-header.jpg")](https://www.sscor.com/) ## **Thank you for visiting the SSCOR Blog.** Whether you're in a Hospital or EMS setting, this is the place for you. We'll share information on current industry news, tips, as well as the latest and greatest in SSCOR products. Our hope is that this blog is not only informative but a collaborative and open forum for you to share your thoughts on developing opportunities and challenges within your profession. Subscribe. Share your thoughts. Enjoy. -SSCOR Team   # [When Should You Use an Emergency Aspirator?](https://blog.sscor.com/when-should-you-use-an-emergency-aspirator) Posted by [Sam D. Say](https://blog.sscor.com/author/sam-d-say) Nov 4, 2023 8:00:00 AM 3 min read - [![LinkedIn Social Icon](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hub/142915/file-2628248555-png/images/icons/linkedin-small.png) ](https://blog.sscor.com/when-should-you-use-an-emergency-aspirator#) 0 - [![Facebook Social Icon](https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hub/142915/file-2623658044-png/images/icons/fb-small.png) ](https://blog.sscor.com/when-should-you-use-an-emergency-aspirator#) 0 ![When Should You Use an Emergency Aspirator](https://blog.sscor.com/hs-fs/hubfs/When%20Should%20You%20Use%20an%20Emergency%20Aspirator.jpg?width=724&name=When%20Should%20You%20Use%20an%20Emergency%20Aspirator.jpg)   An emergency aspirator can save lives. It can also be intimidating to patients, and first responders may be reluctant to use the device in the absence of clear indications. There is no reason to deny or delay suction to a patient who shows an obvious need. So when should you use an emergency aspirator? The short answer is that an emergency aspirator may be appropriate [any time there is any sort of airway obstruction](https://blog.sscor.com/respiratory-emergencies-when-and-when-not-to-use-suction). Here are some of the most common usage indications.     ### **Excessive Secretions the Patient Cannot Clear** Any time the patient has excessive respiratory secretions that they cannot clear, an emergency aspirator is appropriate. A rattling or raspy sound when the patient talks, hoarseness, or a wet-sounding cough may signal excessive secretions. Additionally, if the patient indicates they are struggling to breathe and need help [clearing the airway](https://blog.sscor.com/clearing-the-airway-with-salad-an-interview-with-dr.-james-ducanto), an aspirator is appropriate.   ### **Vomiting** A patient who is continuously vomiting or bleeding, especially if they already have a respiratory obstruction, is at risk of aspirating. Vomiting in an unconscious patient or a patient who is seizing is often an emergency. An emergency aspirator can clear the airway and lower the risk.   [![Guide: Portable Emergency Suction: A Critial Tool In Avoiding Aspiration Pneumonia](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/212347/2f1501c2-bb40-46f8-a1de-c029ad5be75b.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/212347/2f1501c2-bb40-46f8-a1de-c029ad5be75b)   ### **Airway Obstruction from Traumatic Injuries** Airway trauma can be life-threatening and may lead to [an airway obstruction](https://blog.sscor.com/what-causes-airway-obstruction). Someone who has suffered a blow to the neck, a gunshot wound, a head injury, or another physical trauma may need assistance clearing the airway. Clearing the airway with an emergency aspirator can also help with visualizing the location and severity of the injury.   ### **Suspected Aspiration** Aspiration is a serious and potentially life-threatening emergency. Certain patients, including those with dysphagia and other swallowing disorders, face a heightened risk. A patient who shows signs of aspiration may need to have their airway cleared. Some [signs of aspiration include](https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/aspiration-pneumonia):   - Chest pain - Shortness of breath - A hoarse, rattling cough - Green sputum - Very foul-smelling breath - Fever - Cyanosis - Excessive unexplained sweating - Unexplained fatigue If you know a patient has aspirated, don’t wait for them to show symptoms. [![New: Free Emergency Aspirator Purchasing Guide for Hospitals](https://no-cache.hubspot.com/cta/default/212347/8b3f08ff-a209-4f08-b702-68de84bac45b.png)](https://cta-redirect.hubspot.com/cta/redirect/212347/8b3f08ff-a209-4f08-b702-68de84bac45b)   ## **Contraindications for Suctioning** There are no hard and fast contraindications for suctioning, and denying suctioning to a patient can endanger their life. However, some medical conditions can make suctioning more difficult. In these situations, first responders should proceed with caution, and the most experienced team member should perform the procedure. Conditions [that may increase risk](https://blog.sscor.com/contraindications-for-airway-management) include:   - A prior history of airway trauma. This may indicate an unusual or difficult airway. It may also increase patient anxiety about suctioning. - Cardiac arrhythmias. This increases the risk of cardiovascular issues following suctioning. - Traumatic injuries to the face or skull. This can make suctioning more difficult. Suctioning can also exacerbate these injuries. - Mental health conditions, developmental disabilities, and dementia. These conditions can make it difficult to get the patient to follow instructions. They may also increase the risk of trauma, pain, and psychological distress. - Spinal cord injuries. Moving a patient with a recent spinal cord injury can be dangerous. Careful monitoring during and after suctioning can greatly reduce risk. It’s also important to explain the procedure to the patient in terms they can understand. Be patient and empathetic. Take your time, and only suction an airway you can see. Many suctioning emergencies are chaotic and stressful, but rushing the procedure only endangers the patient.   Perhaps most importantly, ensure you have state-of-the-art equipment that delivers efficient, effective, and safe suctioning. Your suction machine should be compatible with all attachments. It should also have a reliable battery, and you should store it with all attachments and other supplies to increase ease of use. For help selecting the right emergency aspirator for your organization, download our free guide, [The Ultimate Guide to Purchasing a Portable Emergency Suction Device](https://info.sscor.com/the-ultimate-guide-to-purchasing-a-portable-emergency-suction-device).   *Editor's Note: This blog was originally published in February, 2019. It has been re-published with additional up to date content.* Topics: [Aspiration](https://blog.sscor.com/topic/aspiration) ![Author Photo](https://blog.sscor.com/hs-fs/hubfs/SDS2-648378-edited.jpg?width=70&name=SDS2-648378-edited.jpg) ## AboutSam D. Say Sam D. Say is owner and CEO of SSCOR, Inc., a medical device manufacturer specializing in emergency battery operated portable suction devices for the hospital and pre-hospital settings. Mr. Say has been involved in developing product for healthcare providers for over 35 years. His passions include contributing to the management of the patient airway and providing solutions that save lives in difficult conditions. 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