Question

The nurse is caring for a client on mechanical ventilation. When performing endotracheal suctioning, the nurse will avoid hypoxia by

A) Inserting a fenestrated catheter with a whistle tip without suction
B) Completing suction pass in 30 seconds with pressure of 150 mm Hg
C) Hyper oxygenating with 100% O2 for 1 to 2 minutes before and after each suction pass
D) Minimizing suction pass to 60 seconds while slowly rotating the lubricated catheter

Answer 1

To avoid hypoxia during endotracheal suctioning, the nurse should hyperoxygenate the patient with 100% O2 for 1 to 2 minutes before and after each suction pass. So, correct option is (c).

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse caring for a client on mechanical ventilation can avoid hypoxia by hyperoxygenating with 100% O2 for 1 to 2 minutes before and after each suction pass. This practice helps to ensure that the patient's oxygen levels are maintained throughout the suctioning process. The practice of pre-oxygenation and post-oxygenation before suctioning minimizes the risk of hypoxia, which can occur if the oxygen supply is interrupted.

A rapid, high-pressure suction or prolonged suctioning time can lead to significant drops in the patient's oxygen levels, and therefore, should be avoided. Suctioning should be performed quickly and efficiently, with a lubricated catheter and with as much care as possible to minimize any discomfort or further risk to the patient.

When performing endotracheal suctioning on a client on mechanical ventilation, the nurse should take measures to avoid hypoxia. One of the ways to prevent hypoxia is by hyperoxygenating the client with 100% O2 for 1 to 2 minutes before and after each suction pass (option C). This ensures that the client receives adequate oxygenation during and after the procedure.