A client with supraglottic cancer undergoes a partial laryngectomy. Postoperatively, a cuffed tracheostomy tube is in place. When removing secretions that pool above the cuff, the nurse should instruct the client to:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Exhale deeply as the nurse re-inflates the cuff.
Rationale:
1. When the cuff of the tracheostomy tube is deflated, the client should be instructed to exhale deeply to prevent aspiration of secretions.
2. Exhaling helps to clear the airway by pushing secretions out of the trachea, reducing the risk of aspiration.
3. Inhaling or holding the breath while the cuff is being re-inflated can increase the risk of inhaling secretions.
4. Coughing as the cuff is being deflated (choice A) may not be as effective in clearing secretions as exhaling deeply.
5. Taking a deep breath as the nurse deflates the cuff (choice C) may not be as effective as exhaling deeply in preventing aspiration.
In summary, choice D is the correct answer because exhaling deeply helps clear secretions and reduce the risk of aspiration, while the other choices may