The unit manager is orienting a new staff nurse and evaluates which of

The unit manager is orienting a new staff nurse and evaluates which of the following as an ap-propriate technique for nasotracheal suctioning?

1. Placing the client in a supine position
2. Preparing for a clean or nonsterile technique
3. Suctioning the oropharyngeal area first, then the nasotracheal area
4. Applying intermittent suction for 10 seconds during catheter removal

ANSWER

ANS: 4
Intermittent suction for up to 10 to 15 seconds should be applied during catheter removal to pre-vent injury to the mucosa. The client is not placed in a supine position. The client is usually placed in a semi-Fowler’s position. The client’s head is turned to the right to help the nurse suc-tion the left mainstem bronchus, and the client’s head is then turned to the left to help the nurse suction the right mainstem bronchus. Nasotracheal suctioning is a sterile procedure. The nasotra-cheal area should be suctioned first, then the oropharyngeal area. The mouth and pharynx contain more bacteria than the trachea.