When suctioning a semiconscious adult, you should avoid doing what?

Avoiding contact with the back of the airway when suctioning a semiconscious adult is critical for a few reasons. Firstly, the back of the airway contains sensitive structures that can be easily damaged, potentially leading to complications such as bleeding or additional obstruction if trauma occurs. Additionally, touching these structures can trigger a gag reflex or lead to discomfort, which may result in the patient having difficulty breathing.

In suctioning practice, the primary objective is to clear any secretions or blockages without causing further harm. Therefore, careful maneuvering of the suction catheter is essential. When suctioning, insertion should be done gently and without excessive force to maintain the integrity of the airway and ensure patient safety.

The guidelines for suctioning emphasize duration and technique; for instance, suctioning should typically not exceed a certain period to prevent hypoxia, and suctioning should be applied only when withdrawing the catheter to ensure the effective removal of secretions while minimizing injury. Using flexible catheters can enhance the suction process but should be done with care to not make contact with the delicate airway structures.