Why is suctioning kept intermittent rather than continuous?

Suctioning is performed intermittently primarily to minimize the risk of trauma to the patient's airway and surrounding tissues. Continuous suctioning can lead to various complications, such as irritation, tissue damage, or hypoxia, as the constant suction could remove not only secretions but also healthy tissue and disrupt blood flow. By using an intermittent technique, the caregiver allows time for the removal of secretions while also providing the airway with moments of rest that help maintain tissue viability and prevent further irritation or damage.

Other reasons related to comfort, procedural efficiency, and suction force are secondary or not the primary rationale for using an intermittent approach in suctioning. Intermittent suctioning also serves to observe the patient's response and assess their condition between suction attempts, which is vital for effective airway management.