What is the recommended sequence for suctioning if necessary?

What is the recommended sequence for suctioning if necessary?

• A. First mouth, then nose
• B. First nose, then mouth
• C. Only suction the nose
• D. Only suction the mouth

Answer: (A)

Start with suctioning the mouth, then the nose. Clearing the oral cavity first removes the bulk of secretions where they’re easiest to clear and reduces the chance that nasal secretions will be pushed into the throat or lower airway during subsequent suctioning. If you began with the nose, secretions could move toward the oropharynx or lungs when you later suction the mouth, and you’d leave secretions behind in the mouth. Suctioning only one site leaves part of the airway still obstructed, which isn’t ideal for a clear airway.

Start with suctioning the mouth, then the nose. Clearing the oral cavity first removes the bulk of secretions where they’re easiest to clear and reduces the chance that nasal secretions will be pushed into the throat or lower airway during subsequent suctioning. If you began with the nose, secretions could move toward the oropharynx or lungs when you later suction the mouth, and you’d leave secretions behind in the mouth. Suctioning only one site leaves part of the airway still obstructed, which isn’t ideal for a clear airway.