Proper Techniques for Suctioning a Patient's Mouth

What is the correct technique for suctioning a patient's mouth?

1) Insert the catheter with the suction on, and turn the suction unit off as you are withdrawing the catheter
2) Insert the catheter with the suction off, turn the suction on to remove foreign material, and then off as you withdraw the catheter
3) Insert the catheter with the suction on, and suction while you insert and withdraw the catheter
4) Insert the catheter with the suction off, apply suction, and continue suction as you are withdrawing the catheter

Answer:

The proper technique for suctioning a patient's mouth is to insert the catheter with the suction off, turn the suction on to remove foreign material, and then turn it off as you withdraw the catheter.

Explanation: The proper technique for suctioning a patient's mouth is to insert the catheter with the suction off, turn the suction on to remove foreign material, and then turn it off as you withdraw the catheter. This technique helps to prevent any potential injury to the patient's oral tissues. By inserting the catheter with the suction off, you allow for a safer insertion process. Once the catheter is in place, you can turn on the suction to remove any secretions or debris. Then, turn off the suction as you carefully withdraw the catheter to prevent any trauma to the oral tissues.

Remember to follow proper infection control measures, including hand hygiene and wearing appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves, mask, and goggles, when performing suctioning procedures.

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