Oral Suctioning at Home in Singapore

What it costs

typically S$140–200 per visit for the nurse's time. Consumables are billed separately at cost — no markup. The fee also covers travel within mainland Singapore and a written summary for the patient's doctor. See the full pricing list.

Surcharges, where they apply:

• Same-day / urgent (booked within 24 hours): +S$60
• Off-island / remote zones (Sentosa, Jurong Island, Tuas South): +S$55
• Visits beyond 60 minutes: +S$60 per additional 30 minutes

What happens during the visit

• The nurse checks the patient's breathing and positions them safely.
• Secretions are cleared gently with a suction catheter, avoiding trauma.
• Breathing and oxygen levels are checked after suctioning.
• The family is taught safe technique and how to avoid infection.
• A written visit summary is left for the patient's own doctor.

Who needs this

People who can't clear their own secretions — for example after a stroke, with advanced neurological illness, or when bedridden — and the families learning to manage suctioning safely at home.

How often: As needed — some patients need suctioning several times a day, which is why caregiver training matters.

Subsidies you may be eligible for

Eligible Singapore Citizens and PRs may qualify for AIC-subsidised home nursing and the Home Caregiving Grant. See home nursing subsidies for who qualifies and how to apply.

When to call a doctor

• Blue lips, severe breathlessness, or choking that doesn't clear (call 995)
• Blood in the suctioned secretions
• Fever, or thick discoloured phlegm (possible chest infection)

For urgent or severe symptoms, call 995 or go to the nearest A&E.