Questions Respiratory System Related

Review Questions Respiratory System related questions and content

A nurse is demonstrating suctioning a tracheostomy during the annual skills review. What action by the student demonstrates that more teaching is needed?

  • A. Applying suction while inserting the catheter
  • B. Preoxygenating the client prior to suctioning
  • C. Suctioning for a total of three times if needed
  • D. Suctioning for only 10 to 15 seconds each time
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because applying suction while inserting the catheter can cause damage to the tracheal mucosa and lead to bleeding or injury. The correct technique is to insert the catheter without applying suction, then apply suction while withdrawing it. Preoxygenating the client (B) is a recommended practice to prevent hypoxia. Suctioning for a total of three times if needed (C) and suctioning for only 10 to 15 seconds each time (D) are both appropriate and safe suctioning practices.