Final answer:
Clear secretions are typically removed by coughing or clearing the throat, which are actions to expel or expectorate mucus and debris from the respiratory tract. Always cover your mouth and nose when sneezing to prevent the spread of pathogens.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering how and when to clear secretions in the respiratory tract, it is important to understand the mucociliary escalator's role. Material that moves up the mucociliary escalator to the throat is typically removed by coughing or clearing the throat. Coughing is a reflex that helps expel mucus, phlegm, and other debris from the trachea and upper respiratory tract. When you cough, phlegm may be expelled or expectorated; if it is swallowed, it will be destroyed by stomach acids. Always covering your mouth and nose when you sneeze is crucial because a sneeze can expel many pathogens that are detrimental to health.