Question

A nurse is preparing to suction a client's tracheostomy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A. Suction for 30 seconds with each pass.
B. Allow 2 minutes in between suctioning to reoxygenate the lungs.
C. Use a rotating motion when inserting the catheter from the tracheostomy.
D. Set the suction pressure to 180 mmHg.

Answer 1

When suctioning a client's tracheostomy, the nurse should suction for a specific duration, allow time for reoxygenation, gently insert the catheter, and set an appropriate suction pressure.

Step-by-step explanation:

When suctioning a client's tracheostomy, the nurse should:

1. Suction for 10-15 seconds with each pass, to prevent hypoxia and irritation of the airway tissues.
2. Allow 30 seconds to 2 minutes in between suctioning to reoxygenate the lungs, depending on the needs of the patient.
3. Insert the catheter gently without a rotating motion, as this can cause trauma to the trachea.
4. Set the suction pressure to 100-150 mmHg, as higher pressures can also cause tissue damage.