Suction pump circuits must be sealed from end to end. That means from the catheter tubing used for suctioning upthrough the patient tubing, through the reservoir and bacterial filter and into the machine for the pump itself.

If there is any leak anywhere in the circuit, then air from the outside will be sucked into the machine. This means the pump is likely not to suction well, or it may be the pressure reading will be inaccurate or inconsistent.

So first, check the reservoir and the reservoir lid. Make sure there are no cracks or other damage. If there are, then you need to immediately replace either the lid or the reservoir, or both.

Don’t use the machine until this is done. This is important because a damaged reservoir or lid represents an infection risk in a neonatal unit and suctioning. Small babies with the wrong pressure may cause an injury.

To test if any of the tubes are leaking, you can use foam or soapy water along the outside of the suspected tubing. Turn on the machine and check for any bubbles or movement in the liquid. If you find a leak anywhere, then simply replace the tubing.

If there are no leaks, then it may be there’s a blockage somewhere. You can visually check for any blockages in the tubing or ports on the machine and the reservoir lid. If you find any kind of blockage, use earbuds or any other appropriate tool to clean it.