When suctioning a patient with an endotracheal tube (ETT), the nurse should limit the suctioning time to:

Choice D rationale:

Before performing sterile suctioning on a patient with an endotracheal tube (ETT), the nurse should preoxygenate the patient with 100% oxygen. Suctioning can temporarily decrease oxygen levels in the airway, and preoxygenation helps prevent hypoxia during the procedure.

Choice A rationale:

Checking the patient's blood pressure is not directly related to the preparation for sterile suctioning. However, the nurse should monitor vital signs during and after the procedure.

Choice B rationale:

Placing the patient in the supine position is not a specific requirement for sterile suctioning. The nurse should position the patient appropriately for the procedure to ensure optimal access to the airway.

Choice C rationale:

Inserting the catheter without resistance is not a recommended action. The nurse should assess the patient's airway and ensure proper placement of the suctioning catheter to avoid causing injury or damage.

Choice A rationale:

Rinsing the catheter and tubing with saline after each suction pass is not a standard practice and is not necessary for sterile suctioning.

Choice B rationale:

Inserting the catheter into the artificial airway using sterile technique is crucial to maintain the integrity of the procedure and prevent infections.

Choice C rationale:

Limiting each suction pass to no more than 10 seconds helps to prevent complications such as hypoxia and tissue damage.

Choice D rationale:

Providing oral or nasal care after suctioning helps maintain the patient's airway, promote comfort, and prevent infections.

Choice E rationale:

Applying continuous suction while withdrawing the catheter is not recommended as it can cause trauma to the airway and should be avoided during sterile suctioning.