Michael J. Scala, RN, BSN, EMT-P

Clinical White Paper Published in 2011 

Suction collection canisters are used in almost every patient care area. They form a reservoir where solid and liquid components are separated from air and aerosols. Once these collection vessels have been employed clinically, they become an environmental reservoir of pathogens in that patient care area. Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP) bundles commonly include the recommendation that collection canisters be changed at a minimum of Q24hrs. This literature review will attempt to demonstrate an evidence-based canister change protocol supportive of the reduction of this potential HAI vector. This evidence-based protocol recommendation could represent over $1000 worth of savings per ICU bed per year.