The normal term infant has little difficulty clearing the airway after birth.Most secretions are brought up to the oropharynx by the cough reflex.However,if the infant has excess secretions,the mouth and nasal passages can be cleared easily with a bulb syringe.When instructing parents on the correct use of this piece of equipment,it is important that the nurse teach them to:

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The mouth should be suctioned first to prevent the infant from inhaling pharyngeal secretions by gasping as the nares are suctioned.The nasal passages should be suctioned one nostril at a time.After compression of the bulb it should be inserted into one side of the mouth.If the bulb is inserted into the center of the mouth,the gag reflex is likely to be initiated.When the infant's cry no longer sounds as though it is through mucus or a bubble,suctioning can be stopped.The bulb syringe should remain in the crib so that it is easily accessible if needed again.

The Normal Term Infant Has Little Difficulty Clearing the Airway