RN Exam Practice
Reduction of Risk PotentialQuestion 1702 of 2368

A client needs nasopharyngeal suctioning. Which technique should the nurse use?

  1. Apply continuous suction during insertion of the catheter into the nostril
  2. Apply suction only while withdrawing and rotating the catheter
  3. Hold the catheter still in one place while the suction is applied
  4. Keep suction on for about 30 seconds per pass to clear the airway
Show answer

Correct answer: Apply suction only while withdrawing and rotating the catheter

Suction is applied only on withdrawal, for no more than 10 to 15 seconds, to limit tissue trauma.

Source: Nursing Skills, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2023), Tracheostomy Care & Suctioning: Checklist for Oropharyngeal or Nasopharyngeal Suctioning. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.

Practice the topic "Reduction of Risk Potential"

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026