Preoxygenating Before Tracheostomy Suctioning

Physiologic Needs · Question from the ATI PN Fundamentals 2023 Proctored Exam study set

Correct answer: Preoxygenate the client prior to suctioning

Why this is the answer

Preoxygenating with 100% oxygen helps prevent hypoxemia during suctioning, which temporarily removes oxygen from the airway along with secretions.

The bigger concept

Suctioning removes oxygen along with secretions, so the steps are built around limiting hypoxia: hyperoxygenate before and between passes, apply suction only while withdrawing, limit each pass to 10–15 seconds, allow recovery between passes, and stop if the heart rate drops or oxygen saturation falls. Suction only when indicated (audible secretions, coughing, desaturation), not on a fixed schedule, and use sterile technique for a new tracheostomy.

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