HESI Fundamentals Practice Test Related

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You are assigned to teach a student how to suction an adult patient with a tracheostomy. Which of the following actions by the student would be incorrect?

  • A. Pre-oxygenating the patient with a Resuscibag at 100% O2 several times before suctioning.
  • B. Maintaining wall suction pressure at 110-150 mmHg.
  • C. Not suctioning for greater than 10-15 seconds at a time.
  • D. Applying gentle intermittent pressure and rotating the catheter during the insertion phase of suctioning.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The incorrect action by the student is applying gentle intermittent pressure and rotating the catheter during the insertion phase of suctioning. This technique can cause trauma to the tracheal walls, increasing the risk of injury to the patient. It is essential to perform suctioning gently and without rotation to prevent complications in patients with a tracheostomy. Pre-oxygenating the patient, maintaining appropriate suction pressure, and limiting suctioning time are all correct actions when suctioning a patient with a tracheostomy.