An Investigation Into the Dispersion Pattern During Coughing and Open Nasopharyngeal Suction Using Various Barrier Devices

The aim of the study is to examine the air dispersion pattern and the environmental influence of open airway suction in general ward setting. Secondly, the study is aimed at identifying a simple & practical enclosure device in general ward. Suction will be performed in manikin in supine lying.

Nasopharyngeal suction will be performed by physiotherapist with working experience more than 1 years. Besides, surgical mask & enclosure tent will be adopted as the enclosure barrier device in this study.

Research Question

1. To assess the extent of the environmental contamination during coughing and simulated airway suction
2. To measure the air particle count during coughing and simulated open airway suction.
3. To evaluate how effective the enclosure barrier in reducing the air particle dispersion during open airway suction.