Final answer:
When suctioning an endotracheal tube (ETT), follow these steps: ensure necessary equipment, gently insert catheter, apply suction while withdrawing, consider saline instillation, assess patient after suctioning.
Step-by-step explanation:
When suctioning an endotracheal tube (ETT), there are several important steps to follow:
- Ensure that you have the necessary equipment such as suction catheters, gloves, and personal protective equipment.
- Gently insert the suction catheter into the ETT, using a twisting motion to minimize trauma to the airway.
- Apply suction while withdrawing the catheter, being careful not to suction for too long to avoid hypoxia.
- If secretions are thick, you may need to instill sterile saline into the ETT to help loosen them before suctioning.
- After suctioning, assess the patient's oxygenation and ventilation to ensure there are no adverse effects.