Saunders Respiratory Practice

If a client’s oxygen saturation is noted to be 89% during suctioning, what should the nurse do?

1. Increase oxygen flow

2. Continue suctioning

3. Stop the suctioning procedure

4. Reposition the client

The correct answer is: Stop the suctioning procedure

When a client's oxygen saturation drops to 89% during suctioning, it is crucial for the nurse to stop the suctioning procedure immediately. Maintaining adequate oxygenation is vital, and a drop to 89% indicates that the client may not be receiving enough oxygen, possibly due to the suctioning disrupting their airway or exacerbating a pre-existing respiratory condition. Stopping suctioning allows the airway to be cleared, the client's breathing pattern to stabilize, and provides an opportunity for the nurse to reassess the situation. This includes evaluating the patient's need for supplemental oxygen or other interventions to restore normal oxygen saturation levels. Continuing with suctioning or attempting interventions that may compromise the airway while the client is hypoxic could lead to further complications. Repositioning the client may be beneficial in some cases to improve oxygenation, but it's important to first cease suctioning to prevent exacerbation of the oxygen desaturation. This approach prioritizes the patient's immediate needs and focuses on restoring stable oxygen saturation levels.