Final answer:
The nurse should hyperoxygenate the client before endotracheal suctioning to ensure the client has sufficient oxygen during the procedure. Suctioning should be brief and suction should be applied while withdrawing the catheter.
Step-by-step explanation:
When providing care to a client who is in respiratory distress and requires endotracheal suctioning, the correct action the nurse should take is D) Hyperoxygenate the client before suctioning. Oxygenating the patient beforehand ensures that the client has a reserve of oxygen during the brief period when suction is being applied, and airflow is interrupted. Administering supplemental oxygen via a nasal cannula, or another method, can help maintain adequate oxygen saturation levels. Suctioning should be performed for a short duration (10-15 seconds generally, not exceeding 20 seconds) to prevent hypoxia, and apply suction while withdrawing the catheter to prevent damaging the mucosa and to increase the effectiveness of the procedure by clearing secretions as the catheter is removed.