Ensuring Proper Ventilator Care for Patients

How can you ensure proper care for patients whose respirations are supported by a ventilator?

Choose the correct steps to suction the patient's endotracheal tube using a closed suctioning system:

  1. Depress the suction button to apply intermittent suction.
  2. Clear secretions from sheath.
  3. Turn the catheter safety cap to disable the suction button.
  4. Hyperventilate the patient.
  5. Grasp the catheter and advance it to the predetermined length.
  6. Turn the catheter safety cap to enable suction button.

Answer:

The correct order of steps for suctioning a patient's endotracheal tube using a closed suctioning system are: hyperventilate the patient, clear secretions from sheath, grasp the catheter and advance it to the predetermined length, turn the catheter safety cap to disable the suction button, depress the suction button to apply intermittent suction, and turn the catheter safety cap to enable the suction button.

Proper care for patients whose respirations are supported by a ventilator is crucial to ensure their comfort and well-being. When suctioning a patient's endotracheal tube using a closed suctioning system, it is important to follow the correct steps to prevent complications and ensure effective care.

Hyperventilating the patient helps prepare them for suctioning by increasing oxygen levels in the blood. Clearing secretions from the sheath and advancing the catheter to the predetermined length allow for effective suctioning without causing harm to the patient.

Turning the catheter safety cap to disable the suction button before applying intermittent suction helps prevent accidental suctioning and ensures the safety of the patient. After suctioning is complete, turning the catheter safety cap to enable the suction button allows for proper functioning of the closed suctioning system.

By following these steps in the correct order, you can ensure that your patient receives the best care possible while their respirations are supported by a ventilator.

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