College

A client requires long-term ventilator therapy. The client has a tracheostomy in place and requires frequent suctioning. Which technique should the nurse use?

A. Intermittent suction while advancing the catheter.
B. Continuous suction while advancing the catheter.
C. Continuous suction while withdrawing the catheter.
D. Intermittent suction while withdrawing the catheter.

Answer :

The correct suctioning technique for a client with a tracheostomy who requires long-term ventilator therapy is intermittent suction while withdrawing the catheter. This method protects the tracheal lining and helps prevent hypoxia. D. Intermittent suction while withdrawing the catheter.

When providing care is D. Intermittent suction while withdrawing the catheter. This method is used to minimize the potential for damaging the tracheal lining and to help prevent hypoxia. When suctioning, the nurse should insert the catheter without suction to the predetermined length and then apply intermittent suction while slowly withdrawing the catheter, using a rotating motion to enhance the removal of secretions from the tracheal walls. Continuous suction should not be applied while inserting the catheter, as this could cause damage to the respiratory tract tissues and is not effective in removing secretions.