Answer to Question 1
C
In older children, the suction catheter is inserted about 16 to 20 cm or 6 to 8 inches. The catheter is always inserted during inspiration. The catheter should be lubricated with water-soluble lubricant to avoid lipid aspiration pneumonia from a petroleum-based gel. The procedure requires sterile gloves, at least on one hand. The trachea should be suctioned before the pharynx because the mouth and the pharynx contain more bacteria than the trachea.
Answer to Question 2
D
Identify the need to insert an oral airway. Signs and symptoms include upper airway gurgling with breathing, absence of a gag reflex, increased oral secretions, excessive drooling, grinding of teeth, clenched teeth, biting of the orotracheal or gastric tube, labored respirations, and increased respiratory rate. These conditions place the patient at risk for obstruction of the upper airway. Normal response shows no evidence of airway obstruction or compromise. Wheezing may be present as a symptom of allergy but not necessarily of airway obstruction.