If a nurse notes bloody secretions during nasopharyngeal suctioning, the first action should be to:

If a nurse notes bloody secretions during nasopharyngeal suctioning, the first action should be to:

• A. Increase the degree of suction being applied.
• B. Check the degree of suction being applied.
• C. Notify the physician about the findings.
• D. Administer oxygen to the patient.

Answer: (B)

When a nurse observes bloody secretions during nasopharyngeal suctioning, the first action should be to check the degree of suction being applied. It is essential to ensure that the suction settings are appropriate and not excessive, as high levels of suction can cause trauma to the delicate tissues of the nasopharynx, leading to bleeding. By checking the suction settings, the nurse can determine if the suction is set too high and reduce it if necessary to minimize further injury. This action not only addresses the immediate concern of bleeding but also helps to determine the most appropriate next steps based on the suction settings. Considering the clinical context, making adjustments to the suction pressure can play a crucial role in the patient's safety and comfort before any further interventions are taken, such as notifying the physician or administering additional treatments.

When a nurse observes bloody secretions during nasopharyngeal suctioning, the first action should be to check the degree of suction being applied. It is essential to ensure that the suction settings are appropriate and not excessive, as high levels of suction can cause trauma to the delicate tissues of the nasopharynx, leading to bleeding. By checking the suction settings, the nurse can determine if the suction is set too high and reduce it if necessary to minimize further injury.

This action not only addresses the immediate concern of bleeding but also helps to determine the most appropriate next steps based on the suction settings. Considering the clinical context, making adjustments to the suction pressure can play a crucial role in the patient's safety and comfort before any further interventions are taken, such as notifying the physician or administering additional treatments.