ORCID

Abstract

BackgroundIn resource-limited Intensive Care Units (ICUs), reusing endotracheal suctioning catheters is often standard practice due to supply constraints or staffing pressures. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) have explored the impact of these practices on patient outcomes. However, less is known about the experiences of nurses and family members involved in RCTs testing endotracheal suctioning interventions.AimTo explore the experiences of ICU nurses and family members participating in a feasibility RCT comparing single-use versus multiple-use endotracheal suction catheters flushed with chlorhexidine or normal saline in a resource-limited ICU setting.Study DesignA qualitative study was embedded within a feasibility RCT. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 13 ICU nurses and seven family members at a university hospital in Egypt. Data were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using Thematic Analysis supported by NVivo software.FindingsFive themes were identified: (1) Navigating resource limitations in daily practice, (2) Building knowledge and confidence in intervention delivery, (3) Balancing infection control with feasibility, (4) Families navigating through emotional and cultural uncertainties, and (5) Family perceptions of trial participation and consent. Nurses valued structured training, which enhanced adherence and confidence, but expressed concerns about budget and supply constraints. Families appreciated clear explanations of interventions and valued the potential to improve patient safety, though some reported anxiety around unfamiliar procedures.ConclusionsBoth nurses and family considered the interventions and trial procedures acceptable and feasible within the ICU context, although long-term implementation may require addressing resources and training needs for ICU nurses.Relevance to Clinical PracticeUnderstanding the experiences of delivering interventions by nurses and the involvement of family in clinical trials is essential for designing RCTs testing novel nursing interventions. These insights can inform future large-scale RCTs testing endotracheal suction catheters interventions in mechanically ventilated patients and ensure trial successes.Trial RegistrationClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT06207513

Publication Date

2026-08-13

Publication Title

Nursing in Critical Care

Volume

31

Issue

5

ISSN

1362-1017

Acceptance Date

2026-07-20

Deposit Date

2026-08-24

Funding

The researcher [Mohamed H. Eid] is funded by a full scholarship [MM71/22] from the Ministry of Higher Education of the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Keywords

airway management, chlorhexidine, intensive care units, interview, qualitative research

Creative Commons License

Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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