Yesterday at work (for the mere 4 hours I was there lol) we just got a fresh post-op GSW to the face. He had a trach with a ballard suctioning system, which is basically an enclosed suctioning device. They're nice (and save time!) because since it is enclosed, it is sterile and non-sterile gloves aren't going to break the sterile field. This also means you don't have to bring in a new sterile suctioning kit every time you want to suction someone.

The seasoned RN, who works on an orthopedic floor, has never seen these before or worked with them. I got to do my teaching moment by showing her how to use it. I guess you can teach an old dog new tricks, though it must have been embarrassing for her because the family members were in the room. Generally people look up to RN's as the "know-it-all" people - and my badge definitely does not say "RN" in big black bold letters.