Arranges a signal with the patient so that they can communicate if they wish to halt/stop, e.g. raising hand.States that they will monitor the patient’s condition throughout the intervention, i.e. colour, breathing pattern, respiratory rate, heart rate, secretions, and evidence of trauma and distress, using pre-suction baseline observations as a guideline
;Assists the patient to sit in a semi-upright position in chair/bed, supporting head with pillows and ensuring no head tilt forwards or backwards.
;Dons a disposable plastic apron, non-sterile gloves, mask and goggles.
;Checks that the nostrils are patent by asking the patient to sniff with one nostril closed. Repeats with the other nostril.
;Selects an appropriate type and size of catheter for the task and size of the patient (size 10 or 12 accepted).
;Sets suction to 12–20 kPa/100–150 mmHg, and checks suction is working.
;Assembles equipment using non-touch technique, and attaches tubing to the wall suction canister and suction catheter to the tubing.
;Lubricates the tip of the catheter with sterile water and gently inserts the catheter into the nostril as the patient inhales until the patient coughs or resistance is felt.
;States that if resistance is felt or distress caused, such as uncontrolled coughing, the catheter will be withdrawn 1cm before applying suction.
;Applies suction by placing thumb over valve. Slowly withdraws, maintaining the vacuum, applying continuous or intermittent suctioning (10-second intervals). States that they would repeat the procedure 2 to 3 times as required/tolerated.
;Flushes the suction tubing with sterile water.
;Ensures that the patient’s face is clean and that they are safe and comfortable post procedure.