Question

You are suctioning a trauma patient who has large blood clots present in the mouth. You should _______.

1) Use alcohol to clear blood clots from the suction tip
2) Insert the suction tip with a vacuum on
3) Sweep the clots out of the mouth before suctioning
4) Ensure that your suction unit does not exceed 200mm Hg negative pressure

Answer 1

When suctioning a trauma patient with large blood clots in the mouth, it is important to ensure that the suction unit does not exceed 200mm Hg negative pressure. Sweeping the clots out of the mouth before suctioning is necessary to prevent further obstruction and to maintain the airway. Using alcohol to clear blood clots from the suction tip and inserting the suction tip with a vacuum on should be avoided.

Step-by-step explanation:

When suctioning a trauma patient with large blood clots in the mouth, it is important to ensure that the suction unit does not exceed 200mm Hg negative pressure (option 4). This is because using excessive negative pressure can potentially damage the delicate tissues in the mouth and throat. Additionally, it is necessary to sweep the clots out of the mouth before suctioning (option 3) to prevent further obstruction and to maintain the airway. Using alcohol to clear blood clots from the suction tip (option 1) is not recommended as it can introduce substances that may cause harm if ingested. Inserting the suction tip with a vacuum on (option 2) can cause further trauma and should be avoided.