About Suction Catheters and Airway Supplies
This Respiratory Supplies subcategory covers the disposables used with a suction machine and for basic airway care: suction catheters, Yankauer oral suction tips, suction canisters and liners, connecting tubing, and oral and nasal airways. Brands include Halyard Health and Salter Labs.
Suction catheters are sized by French size, the outer diameter of the catheter. The correct French size depends on the airway being suctioned, such as the size of a tracheostomy tube, and is specified by your clinician. Catheters also differ in type. Open suction catheters are single-use and often come in kits with a glove and cup, while closed or in-line catheters stay attached to a ventilator circuit. Some have a thumb-port control valve; others are straight.
Yankauer tips are rigid handles for suctioning the mouth. They come with or without a vent, in flexible or rigid styles, and in bulb or open tip designs. Canisters are listed by capacity, and connecting tubing by length and inner diameter.
Because the same catheter often comes in several French sizes and packaging configurations, reorder by the REF number printed on your current package and check the French size and count shown on the listing.
Frequently asked questions
How do I choose the right suction catheter French size?
The French size, which is the catheter's outer diameter, should be specified by your clinician based on the airway or tracheostomy tube being suctioned. After that, choose open or closed style, whether you want a control valve, and whether you need a kit with gloves and a cup or the catheter alone.
Are suction catheters and airway supplies covered by insurance?
Many suction supplies have HCPCS codes, which are shown on each product page for reference. Allowed quantities and prescription requirements depend on your payer and plan. ArmadaMeds is a retailer, does not bill insurance or act as a DME provider, and cannot promise coverage, so confirm with your plan.
How do I reorder suction catheters by the case?
Catheters, kits and Yankauers are sold individually, by the box and by the case, each as a separate item. Search the REF number printed on your current package, then confirm the French size, style and count before ordering so the replacement matches what you use now.