HESI Registered Nurse EXIT Practice Exam

To prevent unnecessary hypoxia during tracheostomy suctioning, what procedure should the nurse follow?

1. Apply suction for no more than 10 seconds

2. Maintain sterile technique

3. Lubricate 3 to 4 inches of the catheter tip

4. Withdraw catheter in a circular motion

The correct answer is: Apply suction for no more than 10 seconds

To prevent unnecessary hypoxia during tracheostomy suctioning, it is vital to limit the duration of suctioning to minimize the interruption in airflow and oxygenation to the patient. Applying suction for no more than 10 seconds helps to clear secretions effectively while reducing the risk of hypoxia that can occur when the airway is occluded for extended periods. This brief suctioning duration allows for maximum oxygenation during the procedure, as prolonged suctioning can lead to inadequate oxygen supply to the tissues. Maintaining sterile technique is important to prevent infection, but it does not directly prevent hypoxia during the suctioning process. Proper lubrication of the catheter tip is essential for ease of insertion and minimizing trauma but is unrelated to the duration of suctioning and its impact on oxygenation. Withdrawing the catheter in a circular motion can aid in clearing secretions, but this action does not address the critical factor of suction duration, which primarily influences the risk of hypoxia. Thus, keeping suctioning to a maximum of 10 seconds is the most effective way to ensure the patient's oxygen levels remain stable during the procedure.