Integrated suction in the anesthesia machine is used to?

• A. Remove secretions and fluids from the airway
• B. Increase fresh gas flow
• C. Measure airway pressure
• D. Adjust vaporizer output

Answer: (A)

Integrated suction is provided to clear secretions, saliva, blood, or vomitus from the airway. Keeping the airway clear is essential for maintaining patency and safe ventilation during anesthesia, especially during intubation, emergence, or when secretions are produced. The suction source draws material through a dedicated port in the breathing circuit, allowing prompt clearance without disconnecting the airway.

This function does not increase fresh gas flow, nor does it measure airway pressure or adjust vaporizer output. Fresh gas flow is controlled by the gas delivery system, airway pressure is monitored by a pressure transducer, and vaporizer output is set by the anesthesia machine’s vaporizer controls.