Module 5: Suctioning - Oropharyngeal and Nasopharyngeal

Question 1

Oropharyngeal airway

Answer 1

oral airway, a curved plastic or rubber device that is inserted into the mouth to the posterior pharnyx. Used to keep the airway open in unconscious patients. Conscious patients cannot tolerate this device. Do not use if patient has had oral surgery or has loose teeth

Question 2

Most common cause of airway obstruction

Answer 2

the tongue

Question 3

Nasopharyngeal airway

Answer 3

curved, soft rubber device that is inserted through one nostril. Extends from the nostril to the posterior pharynx area, keeping the tongue off the back of the throat. Can be used in responsive patients. Airway of choice for patients with recent oral surgery, loose teeth, trauma to the mouth, and those who need frequent suctioning; also called ‘nasal trumpet’. **Should not be used for patients receiving anticoagulant (blood thinning) meds, nasal deformity, bleeding disorders, or sepsis.

Question 4

Suction

Answer 4

Used to remove fluid, food, and secretions from the patient’s nose, mouth, and airway, reducing risk of aspiration. Done as often as necessary to remove secretions. Can use flexible plastic suction catheter or rigid plastic suction

Question 5

Yankauer catheter

Answer 5

Rigid plastic suction, used only for oral suctioning

Question 6

Pressure for suctioning

Answer 6

Set between 80-120 mmHg. Before beginning, block the end of the suction connecting tubing or pinch the tubing to check pressure;

Question 7

Position for suctioning

Answer 7

Whenever possible, use high Fowler’s

Question 8

Tips for suctioning

Answer 8

measure the mouth to earlobe for correct length of tubing; move catheter in a circular motion when suctioning; patient cannot breath during procedure. Suction no more than 10 seconds; suction only on the way out** alternate suctioning between nostrils; a nerve in the airway may be stimulated by suctioning, monitor vital signs

Question 9

Hypoxemia

Answer 9

condition where there is insufficient oxygen in the blood

Question 10

High risk for hypoxemia

Answer 10

those with cardiac or pulmonary disease, postoperative patients for up to a week after surgery, those with sleep apnea, decreased level of consciousness. or neuromuscular diseases

Question 11

Before suctioning, all patients should:

Answer 11

cough

Question 12

Size catheter used for adults when performing nasopharyngeal suctioning:

Answer 12

12-14 French