A nurse has completed sterile suctioning for a patient. What should be the nurse's next action after suctioning?

Choice A rationale:

Epiglottitis is an inflammation of the epiglottis, which is a crucial structure in protecting the airway during swallowing. Suctioning in patients with a history of epiglottitis can be dangerous because it can cause further irritation and swelling of the epiglottis, potentially leading to airway obstruction and respiratory distress. Therefore, sterile suctioning is contraindicated in patients with a history of epiglottitis.

Choice B rationale:

Laryngeal edema refers to swelling of the larynx, which can also compromise the airway. While it is essential to monitor and manage laryngeal edema carefully, it is not an absolute contraindication for sterile suctioning. In some cases, suctioning may be necessary to maintain a patent airway, but it should be performed with caution and by experienced personnel.

Choice C rationale:

Difficulty clearing secretions is a common indication for sterile suctioning. Patients who have difficulty clearing their secretions may need suctioning to prevent the accumulation of mucus and maintain a clear airway. Therefore, this statement does not indicate a contraindication for the procedure.

Choice D rationale:

Using an artificial airway at night, such as a tracheostomy tube, indicates that the patient may require suctioning to maintain airway patency. While having an artificial airway increases the risk of infection and other complications, it is not a contraindication for sterile suctioning if clinically indicated.

Choice A rationale:

Environmental cleaning before suctioning is crucial to maintain a clean and safe environment for the patient. This reduces the risk of introducing additional contaminants during the procedure.

Choice B rationale:

Using a reusable suctioning catheter is not appropriate for infection control measures. Reusable catheters can harbor microorganisms, even after proper cleaning and sterilization, increasing the risk of cross-contamination.

Choice C rationale:

Proper disposal of used catheters into a regular trash bin is not a suitable infection control measure. Used catheters should be disposed of in designated biohazard containers to prevent exposure to potential pathogens.

Choice D rationale:

Hand hygiene before and after the procedure is essential to reduce the transmission of microorganisms to and from the patient.

Choice E rationale:

Wearing gloves and a mask during suctioning helps protect the nurse from exposure to the patient's bodily fluids and potential infectious agents.

Repeat steps 7 to 9 until no more secretions are obtained or until three passes are completed. Do not suction more than three times in a row to prevent complications. Allow at least one minute of rest between each suction pass to prevent fatigue and distress .