Suctioning Equipment

What should I look for in a suction machine?

There are a number of considerations when deciding what suction machine would be best for you.

  • Portable/Lightweight
    Since many tracheostomy patients are active, the size and weight of a pump is of prime consideration. This is especially important if you need to suction often and will be carrying your pump with you wherever you go. The portability of your pump is also a factor if you do a lot of traveling.

It is important to find a pump that is small, lightweight and easy to carry.
  • Quiet
    The quietness of a pump is a very important consideration for many people. If suctioning at night a loud and noisy pump can disturb others sleeping in the area. In addition, if suctioning in public is necessary, the quieter your pump the more discreet you can be in meeting your suctioning needs.
  • Ease of Use
    Look for a pump without a lot of complicated tubing connections. Note how easy the pump is to clean and maintain and if there are filters to change. Look for an overflow protection system so that fluids aren't inadvertently suctioned into the interior of your pump, possibly leading to contamination or pump failure.
  • Battery
    If suctioning will only be needed first thing in the morning and last thing at night, you may be satisfied with a suction machine that does not have a battery backup. If so, it is highly recommended that you have a manual backup pump in case of a power outage. If suctioning will be needed multiple times during the day for an active person, a portable pump with a battery would be a better choice.


I have so much equipment for my child with special needs...how am I possibly going to be able to carry a suction pump, too?

It is important to find a pump that is small, lightweight and easy to carry. If you are transporting your pump on a regular basis, a carrying bag is a must. The bag should be durable and big enough to carry the pump and all the accessories needed to suction.

Is it recommended to have a backup suctioning device on hand?

Yes, a backup suctioning plan is highly recommended. Although no manual pump can match the strength, efficiency and convenience of a suction machine, the possibility of malfunction, insufficient battery charge or power failure does exist. No matter how unlikely these events are, it's important to have a backup suction device available just in case.

Where can I get a suction machine? Will my insurance cover it?

The best place to start is by asking your health care team. They will be able to advise you on what kind of suction machine would be best for you and where to obtain one. They may refer you to a Home Medical Equipment Dealer in your area. It's recommended to call your insurance company and find out what requirements they have in order to obtain coverage. Most HME dealers will have a respiratory therapist or similarly qualified individual on staff to assist you.