Final answer:
A staff nurse demonstrates understanding of endotracheal suctioning by stating they would use a rotating motion when removing the suction catheter, which minimizes trauma and effectively clears secretions, unlike forceful insertion or infrequent suctioning.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question pertains to the best practices in endotracheal suctioning, which is a critical respiratory care procedure commonly performed by staff nurses in a clinical setting such as an Intensive Care Unit (ICU). A staff nurse demonstrates understanding of the in-service teaching by stating, "I will use a rotating motion when removing the suction catheter." This method helps to minimize trauma to the mucosal lining of the airway and ensures thorough clearance of secretions. Utilizing a rotating motion is considered a best practice as opposed to using a straight-line motion, which can be more traumatic and less effective at removing secretions. Forceful insertion of the suction catheter is discouraged as it can cause tissue damage and is not necessary for effective suctioning. The frequency of suctioning should be based on the patient's need and not limited arbitrarily; excessive suctioning can lead to complications such as hypoxemia, mucosal damage, or atelectasis.