Answer :
When performing oropharyngeal suctioning with a Yankauer tip, it's crucial to practice good hand hygiene, check equipment, use sterile techniques, monitor suction pressure, limit procedure duration, and continuously observe the patient's status.
When performing oropharyngeal suctioning with a Yankauer tip, the nurse should follow several safe practices:
- Hand Hygiene: Ensure proper hand-washing or use of hand sanitizer before and after the procedure to prevent infection.
- Patient Position: Position the patient in a semi-Fowler’s or lateral position to decrease the risk of aspiration.
- Equipment Check: Verify that the suction equipment is functioning correctly to ensure effective suctioning.
- Sterile Technique: Use a sterile Yankauer tip to minimize the risk of introducing pathogens.
- Suction Pressure: Set the suction pressure to an appropriate level, typically between 80-120 mmHg for adults, to prevent mucosal trauma.
- Procedure Duration: Limit each suction pass to 10-15 seconds to minimize hypoxia and allow the patient to rest and breathe between passes.
- Observation: Continuously monitor the patient's oxygen saturation and respiratory status throughout the procedure.
- Post-Procedure Care: Reassess the patient’s airway, breathing, and comfort levels after suctioning is completed.
Following these steps ensures the safe and effective removal of secretions with minimal complications for the patient.
