How to perform upper airway suctioning procedure correctly

What are the steps for performing upper airway suctioning (nasopharyngeal)?

Can you list the steps in the correct order?

Answer:

The steps for an upper airway suctioning procedure are: don gloves, position the patient, approximate catheter placement, attach catheter to tubing, insert and advance catheter, adjust suction regulator, and then engage suction while withdrawing catheter.

For performing an upper airway suctioning (nasopharyngeal), the steps should be followed in this order:

1. Don procedure gloves.

2. Position the patient in a semi-Fowler's position with the neck hyperextended.

3. Approximate the depth that the suction catheter should be inserted.

4. Using your dominant hand, attach the suction catheter to the connection tubing.

5. Lubricate and insert the suction catheter.

6. Gently advance the catheter the premeasured distance into the pharynx.

7. Adjust the suction regulator according to agency policy.

8. Engage the suction and apply it while you withdraw the catheter, using a continuous rotating motion.