HESI Nutrition Exam Related

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To prevent unnecessary hypoxia during suctioning of a tracheostomy, what must the nurse do?

  • A. Apply suction for no more than 10 seconds
  • B. Maintain a sterile technique
  • C. Lubricate 3 to 4 inches of the catheter tip
  • D. Withdraw the catheter in a circular motion
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: To prevent unnecessary hypoxia during suctioning of a tracheostomy, the nurse must apply suction for no more than 10 seconds. Prolonged suctioning can lead to hypoxia by removing too much oxygen from the patient. Maintaining a sterile technique (choice B) is important to prevent infection but does not directly relate to preventing hypoxia. Lubricating the catheter tip (choice C) helps with the insertion process but does not specifically address hypoxia prevention. Withdrawing the catheter in a circular motion (choice D) is not a standard practice during tracheostomy suctioning and does not contribute to preventing hypoxia.