Exam Questions on Respiratory System Related

Review Exam Questions on Respiratory System related questions and content

A nurse is suctioning fluids from a female client through an endotracheal tube. During the suctioning procedure, the nurse notes on the monitor that the heart rate is decreasing. Which if the following is the appropriate nursing intervention?

  • A. Continue to suction.
  • B. Notify the physician immediately.
  • C. Stop the procedure and reoxygenate the client.
  • D. Ensure that the suction is limited to 15 seconds.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Stop the procedure and reoxygenate the client. When the nurse notes a decreasing heart rate during suctioning, it could indicate that the client is experiencing hypoxia. Stopping the procedure and providing additional oxygenation is crucial to prevent further complications such as bradycardia or cardiac arrest. Continuing to suction (choice A) can worsen the hypoxia. Notifying the physician immediately (choice B) may cause a delay in addressing the immediate issue. Limiting suction to 15 seconds (choice D) does not address the primary concern of hypoxia and decreasing heart rate.