A patient with an oral endotracheal tube (ET) has a nursing diagnosis of risk for aspiration related to the presence of an artificial airway. The most appropriate nursing intervention for the patient is to

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Performing oral suctioning frequently and especially before cuff deflation decreases the risk for secretions accumulating above the ET cuff and moving past the cuff into the lungs. Even when the cuff is at minimal occluding volume, it cannot totally prevent oral or gastric secretions from leaking past the cuff. Although the patient needs frequent oral care, oral care will not decrease the risk for aspiration. Chest physiotherapy may be included in the patient's care but will not decrease the risk for aspiration.

A Patient with an Oral Endotracheal Tube (ET) Has a Nursing