Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

When preparing to suction an infant with a tracheostomy, how long should the nurse suction?

1. For 10 seconds or less

2. For 5 seconds or less

3. For 15 seconds or less

4. For as long as necessary

The correct answer is: For 5 seconds or less

In the context of suctioning an infant with a tracheostomy, the recommended duration for suctioning is crucial to avoid complications such as hypoxia, trauma, or increased intracranial pressure in a vulnerable population. Suctioning an infant should typically not exceed 5 seconds per attempt. Limiting the suction time to this period helps ensure that the infant maintains adequate oxygenation and does not experience significant distress. Prolonged suctioning can lead to a decrease in airway patency and potential damage to the airway mucosa, further complicating the infant's respiratory status. In clinical practice, it's common to provide supplemental oxygen before and after the suctioning procedure as a safety measure. The aim is to remove secretions efficiently while minimizing the risk of adverse effects on the infant's respiratory status. Therefore, suctioning for 5 seconds or less is the best practice as it aligns with established pediatric protocols.