We recommend you suction before bedtime, first thing in the morning, before meals, and before your child goes outside. If your child has a cold, suctioning should be done more frequently. By suctioning effectively, you will decrease the chance of respiratory tract infections. An accumulation of secretions in the lungs could cause a pneumonia. Breathing rate is faster or harder than usual.
Nostrils flare when breathing.
The skin around the trach sucks in when breathing. Your child appears restless or looks frightened and upset. Your child's face appears pale or the lips are bluish. Your infant is having difficulty sucking on a bottle. If any of these signs occur, suction immediately.