A nurse is caring for a client who has a tracheostomy and requires suctioning. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Tracheostomy suctioning clears secretions but risks hypoxia if prolonged. Suctioning for no longer than 10-15 seconds limits oxygen deprivation per guidelines allowing recovery between passes, critical for a client reliant on a patent airway. Using a clean catheter each time compromises sterility, risking infection sterile is standard. Applying suction while inserting spreads secretions, clogging the tube, while hyperoxygenation post-suctioning helps but pre-suctioning is key to preload oxygen. The time limit balances efficacy and safety, reflecting the nurse's skill in preventing hypoxia or trauma, ensuring effective airway management in a procedure vital for respiratory stability.