The nurse is providing nasotracheal suctioning for a 13-year-old patient with secretions in the throat and trachea.Which action by the nurse demonstrates proper technique?

A) Applying sterile petroleum jelly to the distal tip of the suction catheter
B) Applying clean gloves to both hands
C) Inserting the suction catheter 6 to 8 inches during inspiration
D) Suctioning the pharynx first and then the trachea

In older children,the suction catheter is inserted about 16 to 20 cm (6 to 8 inches).The catheter is always inserted during inspiration.The catheter should be lubricated with water-soluble lubricant to avoid lipid aspiration pneumonia from a petroleum-based gel.The procedure requires sterile gloves,at least on one hand.The trachea should be suctioned before the pharynx because the mouth and the pharynx contain more bacteria than the trachea.