A portable suction device is rechargeable, lightweight, and compatible with disposable medical catheters. The unit can be operated with one hand, while a user may attend to the patient with the other hand. The suction device may feed into a sterile collection vessel, which can be replaceable, cleanable and/or reusable. A rechargeable battery pack for power may be located in the base of the unit. A vacuum pump may supply negative air flow to draw fluids out of a patient. An inline one-way filter located between the catheter and the vessel may prevent bacteria and other possible contaminants from traveling up-line to the patient. The unit may be designed specifically for use by tracheotomy patients and their caregivers.
