(Select all that apply): A nurse is preparing to perform sterile suctioning on a patient. Which of the following are types of suctioning catheters commonly used for this procedure? Select all that apply.

Choice A rationale:

Limiting the suctioning time to 15 seconds may still be too long for some patients, increasing the risk of hypoxia and other complications related to prolonged suctioning. The optimal suctioning time should be shorter to minimize adverse effects.

Choice B rationale:

Limiting the suctioning time to 20 seconds is longer than the recommended duration. Prolonged suctioning can cause hypoxia, increased intracranial pressure, and other adverse effects, making it crucial to keep the time as short as possible.

Choice C rationale:

Suctioning time should generally be limited to 10 seconds to reduce the risk of complications while effectively clearing the patient's airway. This duration allows for adequate removal of secretions without causing significant disturbances to the patient's oxygenation and hemodynamic stability.

Choice D rationale:

Limiting the suctioning time to 5 seconds is too short to effectively clear secretions from the airway, especially in patients with excessive or tenacious secretions. Sufficient time is needed to ensure proper removal of respiratory secretions and maintain the patient's airway patency.

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.