What Does a Yankauer Suction Look Like? Visual Identification Guide
What does a Yankauer suction look like?
The Quick Answer
A Yankauer features a **rigid, curved plastic tip** (typically 12–15cm long) with a large central opening surrounded by a smooth, bulbous head to prevent tissue trauma. The shaft connects to standard suction tubing, often with a vent hole near the handle for thumb-controlled suction regulation. Color is usually white or translucent plastic—distinct from flexible rubber tracheal catheters.
Why We Ask This
New healthcare workers struggle to visually distinguish Yankauer devices from other suction equipment during emergencies, causing delays in appropriate airway management when seconds matter for patient outcomes.
The Practical Science
Key visual identifiers: rigid construction (doesn't bend), curved tip geometry, protective bulbous head surrounding the suction port, and thumb vent on the handle. These features differentiate it from straight, flexible catheters designed for tracheal insertion.
In Clinical Practice
During a code blue, recognizing the rigid curved Yankauer in the airway kit allows immediate oral secretion clearance while reserving flexible catheters for potential endotracheal tube suctioning—preventing inappropriate deep insertion that could trigger laryngospasm.
References & Context
LINE2design Yankauer Oral Suction Tip & Tubing Vented - 2 Pack"It is typically a firm plastic suction tip with a large opening surrounded by a bulbous head and is designed to allow effective suction without damaging surrounding tissue. This tool is used to suction oropharyngeal secretions in order to prevent aspiration."