ATI Clinical Exam Related

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A nurse is performing tracheostomy care for a patient and plans to remove copious secretions. What actions should the nurse take? What action should the nurse take for tracheostomy suctioning?

  • A. Lubricate the suction catheter tip with sterile saline
  • B. Hyperventilate the patient on 100% oxygen prior to suctioning
  • C. Perform chest physiotherapy prior to suctioning
  • D. Suction two to three times with a 60-second pause between passes
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Suction two to three times with a 60-second pause between passes. This is the correct action for tracheostomy suctioning to prevent hypoxia and tissue damage. Suctioning should be limited to 10-15 seconds to minimize the risk of hypoxia. Pausing between passes allows the patient to recover oxygen saturation levels. Choice A is incorrect because lubricating the suction catheter tip with sterile saline is not necessary for tracheostomy suctioning. Choice B is incorrect as hyperventilating the patient on 100% oxygen prior to suctioning can lead to respiratory alkalosis. Choice C is incorrect as performing chest physiotherapy prior to suctioning is not indicated in tracheostomy care.