Answer :
Final answer:
A respiratory therapist should replace a cracked Yankauer suction catheter immediately to maintain effective treatment and prevent risk of infection or injury to the patient.
Explanation:
If a respiratory therapist notices that a patient's Yankauer suction catheter is cracked, the best course of action is to replace the catheter (option D). The integrity of medical equipment is crucial for effective treatment and prevention of complications. Using a cracked catheter could lead to inadequate suction, infection risk, or injury to the patient. In medical practice, safety should always be prioritized, and equipment should be in the best possible condition to ensure the highest level of care.
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