A nurse who is caring for patient with a tracheostomy tube in place has just auscultated rhonchi bilaterally.If the patient is unsuccessful in coughing up secretions,what action should the nurse take?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

This patient needs suctioning now to secure a patent airway.Sterile gloves and a sterile catheter are used when suctioning a tracheostomy.Preoxygenation for 3 minutes is not necessary.Incentive spirometer (IS)use opens alveoli and can induce coughing,which can mobilize secretions.However,the patient with a tracheostomy may not be able to use an incentive spirometer.Increasing oral fluid intake would not moisten and help mobilize secretions in a timely manner.

A Nurse Who Is Caring for Patient with a Tracheostomy