Zuigstanden

Zuigstanden is a Dutch term used to describe the various suction settings or modes that can be selected on equipment that produces suction. In practice, the phrase is used in medical, dental, and laboratory contexts to refer to the level of suction or vacuum a device is configured to deliver. The word zuigen means to suck, and stand refers to a position or setting.

The settings determine how strongly fluid, air, or particulate matter is drawn into the device. They are usually adjusted with a knob or digital control and may be expressed as qualitative levels (low, medium, high) or quantitative values (pressure in kPa/mmHg, or flow rate). Different devices offer different step sizes and safety limits.

In dentistry and oral surgery, zuigstanden are applied to dental suction units to remove saliva, blood, and debris during procedures, with clinicians selecting an appropriate suction level for the tissue and procedure. In clinical environments such as operating rooms and wards, suction settings are used with anesthesia machines, suction catheters, and portable aspirators. In laboratories and industry, similar controls regulate aspiration in processes involving liquids, powders, or aerosols.

Safety and training: improper use or excessive suction can injure tissues or create aerosols. Operators should follow device manuals, use appropriate tips, avoid occluding suction lines, and maintain equipment to prevent blockages and leaks.

Notes: The exact terminology and available settings vary by device and country. In Dutch-language manuals, zuigstanden may be described together with other related terms such as afzuiging (suction) and zuigapparaat (suction device).