Suctioning of a Tracheostomy Patient: Optimizing Patient Care

What are the correct steps for suctioning a tracheostomy patient?

A. Preoxygenate, insert catheter, apply suction, withdraw catheter, reassess
B. Insert catheter, apply suction, preoxygenate, withdraw catheter, reassess
C. Apply suction, preoxygenate, insert catheter, withdraw catheter, reassess
D. Preoxygenate, apply suction, withdraw catheter, insert catheter, reassess

Correct Steps for Suctioning a Tracheostomy Patient

The correct steps for suctioning a tracheostomy patient are preoxygenation, inserting the suction catheter, applying suction while withdrawing the catheter, and reassessing the patient's condition.

The correct sequence of steps in the suctioning of a tracheostomy patient is: Preoxygenate, insert catheter, apply suction, withdraw catheter, reassess. This sequence ensures that the patient is provided with adequate oxygen before and after the suctioning process to maintain optimal oxygenation, avoid hypoxia, and ensure airway patency is maintained.

Preoxygenate the patient to increase the oxygen reserve in the lungs and reduce the risk of hypoxia during suctioning.

Gently insert the suction catheter into the tracheostomy without applying suction to avoid trauma to the mucosal lining of the airway.

Apply suction by covering the suction port and withdrawing the catheter with a rotating movement to effectively clear secretions.

Withdraw the catheter completely after suctioning is finished.

Reassess the patient's condition, including breathing and oxygenation levels, to ensure the patient has responded well to the procedure.