The measure that would best aid the nurse in removing heavy, tenacious secretions during suctioning is
A) encouraging frequent coughing and deep breathing.
B) employing postural drainage before suctioning.
C) hyperinflating the lungs before suctioning.
D) instilling sterile saline directly into the trachea.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

If tracheal secretions are thick and not easily removed, the nurse should directly instill 3 ml of sterile normal saline into the trachea. The saline reduces the viscosity of secretions for easier removal. This is not a routine intervention; however, if it is needed, the nurse should collaborate with the respiratory therapist to ensure the client is receiving adequate humidity and should assess the client for adequate hydration. These measures will help prevent the client from having heavy secretions.

The Measure That Would Best Aid the Nurse in Removing