A nurse is educating a group of patients about sterile suctioning. Which patient statement indicates a contraindication for this procedure?

"I have a history of epiglottitis.".

"I sometimes get laryngeal edema.".

"I have difficulty clearing my secretions.".

"I use an artificial airway at night.".

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

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.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

The nurse should not discard the used catheter and gloves into a regular trash bin because they were used in a sterile procedure, and improper disposal could lead to the risk of contamination and infection for both the patient and others.

Choice B rationale:

Although it is important to assess the patient's response to suctioning, including vital signs, this should not be the immediate next step after completing sterile suctioning. First, the nurse should ensure their own and the patient's safety by following proper infection control measures.

Choice C rationale:

After completing sterile suctioning, the nurse should perform hand hygiene to prevent the spread of infection and then don a new pair of sterile gloves before performing any other tasks or assessments. This step ensures that the nurse maintains a sterile field and minimizes the risk of introducing pathogens into the patient's airway.

Choice D rationale:

Increasing the suction pressure for one last pass is not necessary and may cause harm to the patient's airway. Proper suctioning technique involves limiting the suctioning time and pressure to avoid tissue damage and potential complications.

A. Glass. B. Metal. C. Reusable silicone. D. Disposable plastic.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice D rationale:

When suctioning patients with an artificial airway, using disposable plastic catheters is preferred to reduce the risk of infection. Disposable catheters are single-use and discarded after each procedure, minimizing the potential for contamination and cross-infection between patients.

Choice A rationale:

Glass suctioning catheters are not preferred because they cannot be effectively sterilized for reuse. Reusable materials carry a higher risk of infection transmission and should be avoided when possible.

Choice B rationale:

Metal suctioning catheters are also not the preferred choice for reducing the risk of infection. Like glass catheters, they can be difficult to clean and sterilize adequately for safe reuse. Using disposable materials, like plastic catheters, is a safer option.

Choice C rationale:

While reusable silicone catheters may be more flexible and gentler on the airway, they are not the preferred choice for infection control. Like other reusable materials, they carry a higher risk of contamination and are not as easily disposed of as disposable plastic catheters.

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A nurse is educating a group of patients about sterile suctioning. Which patient statement indicates a contraindication for this procedure?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse has completed sterile suctioning for a patient with an endotracheal tube (ETT). What should the nurse do next?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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