Suctioning the Nasopharyngeal Airway

To perform nasopharyngeal suctioning, nurses require a suction machine, sterile suction catheters, gloves, saline, lubricant, and personal protective equipment or PPE.

Initially, the nurse should explain the procedure and assess the patient's respiratory status to determine if suctioning is necessary.

Next, the nurse sets the suction machine pressure between 100 to 120 millimeters of mercury to efficiently clear secretions.

The patient is placed in a semi-Fowler's position to reduce the risk of aspiration.

The nurse dons PPE and attaches the sterile suction catheter to the connecting tube.

Before insertion, the catheter is lubricated 2-3 inches to minimize damage to the mucosa.

The nurse gently inserts the catheter into one nostril, advancing it 5-6 inches to reach the pharynx without applying suction.

Suction is then applied while the catheter is slowly rotated and retracted to avoid mucosal damage. To prevent hypoxemia, limit suction to 10-15 seconds.

After suctioning, flush the catheter with saline to clear secretions.

Finally, reassess the respiratory status and document the procedure.