Using mucociliary clearance methods that do not require an artificial airway

Suction is used to clear secretions from the airways of patients who have an endotracheal tube, tracheostomy, minitracheostomy in place or those with an oropharyngeal airway (Lewis, 2002; McConnell, 2000; White, 1997). However, patients who do not have an artificial airway may sometimes require nasotracheal or nasopharyngeal suction (via the nose) or oropharyngeal suction (via the mouth).