Final answer:
The most common complication of tracheal suctioning is airway irritation, which includes symptoms such as a sore throat, cough, and difficulty breathing, and may lead to bronchospasm.
Step-by-step explanation:
The most common complication of tracheal suctioning is airway irritation. This can manifest in different ways, including a sore throat, cough, dyspnea (difficulty breathing), and wheezing, which sometimes escalates to bronchospasm. In healthcare facilities, tracheal suctioning is a necessary procedure for patients who cannot clear their airway effectively due to various conditions such as infections, obstructions, or during and after general anesthesia. It entails inserting a catheter into the trachea to remove secretions and maintain an open airway.
It's important for healthcare professionals to carry out suctioning carefully to minimize risks. Complications can arise, however, due to the mechanical irritation caused by the suctioning process, which can lead to a cough or sore throat. More seriously, if not handled correctly, suctioning can provoke bronchospasms, which is a sudden constriction of the muscles in the walls of the bronchioles which can severely restrict airflow and can be life-threatening if not managed promptly.