A nurse is preparing to suction a client’s tracheostomy tube. Which step should the nurse perform first during the suctioning procedure?
A.
Position the patient in semi-Fowler’s position.
B.
Apply a new dressing around the stoma.
C.
Clean the inner cannula with hydrogen peroxide.
D.
Gather equipment and supplies for the procedure.
E.
Remove the old dressing and discard it in a moisture-resistant bag.
The Correct answer and Explanation is: The correct answer is D. Gather equipment and supplies for the procedure.
Explanation:
Suctioning a client’s tracheostomy tube is a critical procedure that requires careful planning and execution to ensure patient safety and the effectiveness of the intervention. The first step the nurse should perform during the suctioning procedure is to gather all necessary equipment and supplies. This is crucial because having everything prepared and within reach ensures that the procedure can be performed efficiently without interruptions, which is especially important in preventing potential complications such as hypoxia or infection.
The equipment typically needed for tracheostomy suctioning includes a suction catheter, sterile gloves, normal saline or sterile water for irrigation, a sterile container, a suction machine, a sterile dressing, and a moisture-resistant bag for disposal of contaminated materials. Additionally, having an extra tracheostomy tube and obturator on hand is essential in case of accidental decannulation.
Once the equipment is gathered, the nurse can proceed with the other steps in the procedure:
- Positioning the Patient (Option A): Before beginning suctioning, the nurse should position the patient in a semi-Fowler’s position. This position facilitates easier access to the tracheostomy and promotes optimal ventilation and drainage of secretions, reducing the risk of aspiration.
- Applying a New Dressing (Option B): Applying a new dressing around the stoma is done after the suctioning procedure is complete. It helps maintain cleanliness and prevents infection at the stoma site.
- Cleaning the Inner Cannula (Option C): Cleaning the inner cannula with hydrogen peroxide or saline is essential, but it is done after suctioning if needed. This step ensures the airway remains patent by removing mucus and other debris that might block airflow.
- Removing the Old Dressing (Option E): The old dressing around the tracheostomy site should be removed and discarded in a moisture-resistant bag as part of preparing the area for suctioning and applying a new dressing later.
By beginning with gathering equipment, the nurse ensures that all necessary tools are available, which reduces the risk of contamination, maintains sterility, and allows the procedure to be completed without delays. This careful preparation is essential in maintaining patient safety and optimizing the effectiveness of the suctioning procedure.