An alert and oriented patient, who is to provide a sputum specimen for cytology, has been unable to produce a specimen.A nurse has an order to obtain the specimen by tracheal suction with an in-line trap.Which precaution should the nurse observe when performing this procedure?
A)Apply suction for no longer than 10 to 15 seconds.
B)Maintain suction while withdrawing the suction catheter.
C)Place the patient in a supine position.
D)Turn off the oxygen for at least 5 minutes prior to suctioning.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Applying suction for no longer than 10 to 15 seconds helps prevent hypoxemia and tissue trauma. Maintaining suction while withdrawing the suction catheter is not recommended as it can cause tissue trauma and increase the risk of contamination. The patient should not be placed in a supine position as this increases the risk of aspiration. Turning off the oxygen for at least 5 minutes prior to suctioning is not necessary and can lead to hypoxemia.

An Alert and Oriented Patient, Who Is to Provide a Sputum