Which parameter is significantly decreased by suctioning, compared to passive range of motion?

Suctioning, while a necessary procedure for clearing the airway in patients who are unable to do so themselves, is known to cause temporary physiological changes. One such change is a reduction in vital capacity or lung volumes.

When suctioning is performed, it can trigger a reflex bronchospasm or blockage, leading to a significant decrease in oxygen saturation and the overall ability of the respiratory system to maintain adequate gas exchange. Studies indicate that suctioning can decrease certain physiological parameters, often noted around 25-30%, depending on various factors such as the patient's underlying health status and the technique used.

In this context, the choice of 27% reflects a specific measurement related to the reduction in functional reserve or vital capacity that can occur as a direct result of suctioning. This provides a clearer understanding of how suctioning impacts the body compared to a less invasive technique like passive range of motion, which does not have the same acute effects on lung function or oxygenation.

Understanding these dynamics is crucial for critical care professionals as they make treatment decisions and manage a patient's airway effectively while minimizing adverse effects.