During resuscitation, suction pressure should be set to which range?

• A. 40-60 mm Hg
• B. 60-80 mm Hg
• C. 80-100 mm Hg
• D. 100-120 mm Hg

Answer: (C)

During resuscitation, clearing the airway must be done enough to remove secretions without harming the infant. For neonatal oropharyngeal suctioning, the recommended suction pressure is 80–100 mmHg. This range provides effective suction to clear the airway while minimizing mucus membrane injury and vagal stimulation that can lead to bradycardia or reduced oxygenation. Pressures lower than this may be ineffective at removing secretions, while higher pressures increase the risk of airway trauma and adverse cardiac effects. If suctioning is performed through the endotracheal tube, different, typically higher pressures are used, but routine resuscitation suction focuses on the 80–100 mmHg range.