Effect of reusing suction catheters on the occurrence of pneumonia in children

Objective The purpose of this study was to determine whether disposable suction catheters can be reused in the same patient for a 24-hour period without affecting the incidence of pneumonia.Design The study design was a randomized controlled trial.Setting The study was conducted in the pediatric intensive care unit of a tertiary pediatric center.Sample Subjects included 486 children with an endotracheal tube in place.Outcome measures The development of pneumonia, diagnosed with radiographic and clinical evidence, was the measure. Cost analysis was also undertaken.Method Subjects in the study group (n = 241) were suctioned using the same catheter for a 24-hour period. Those in the control group (n = 245) had a new catheter for each episode of suctioning.Results Pneumonia developed in 14 members (5.71%) of the control group and in 12 members (4.98%) of the study group, a difference of 0.7% (95% CI, -3.3% to 4.7%). Cost analysis indicated a saving of Aust $4.14 per patient per day.Conclusion Reusing suction catheters for up to 24 hours is both safe and cost-effective.