Suctioning an Adult Client through Tracheostomy Tube: Best Practices
What interventions should the nurse perform when suctioning an adult client through a tracheostomy tube?
1. Apply suction for up to 10 to 15 seconds
2. Hyperoxygenate the client before suctioning
3. Set the wall suction unit pressure at 160 mm Hg
4. Apply suction while gently inserting the catheter
5. Apply intermittent suction while rotating and withdrawing the catheter
6. Advance the catheter until resistance is met and then pull the catheter back 1 cm
Answer:
The nurse should hyperoxygenate the client, apply suction for up to 10-15 seconds, set the suction unit pressure at 160 mm Hg, apply suction while withdrawing the catheter, and lastly, advance the catheter until resistance is met – then pull it back 1 cm.
When preparing to suction an adult client through a tracheostomy tube, a nurse should apply the following interventions:
- Hyperoxygenate the client before suctioning to optimize the oxygenation status of the patient.
- Apply suction for up to 10 to 15 seconds to prevent hypoxemia and adverse physiological responses that could occur with prolonged suctioning.
- Set the wall suction unit pressure at 160 mm Hg to facilitate removal of respiratory secretions.
- Do not apply suction while gently inserting the catheter as this can cause trauma to the tracheal lining. Instead, insert it without suction until resistance is met, marking the level of the carina.
- Apply intermittent suction while rotating and withdrawing the catheter. This helps remove secretions more effectively and minimizes mucosal damage.
- Advance the catheter until resistance is met and then pull the catheter back 1 cm, to avoid causing trauma to the carina.
By following these steps, the nurse can ensure a safe and effective suctioning procedure for the adult client with a tracheostomy tube.