The normal term infant has little difficulty clearing its airway after birth. Most secretions are brought up to the oropharynx by the cough reflex

Question

However, if the infant has excess secretions, the mouth and nasal passages can be cleared easily with a bulb syringe. When instructing parents on the correct use of this piece of equipment, it is important that the nurse teach them to: a. Avoid suctioning the nares.
b. Insert the compressed bulb into the center of the mouth.
c. Suction the mouth first.
d. Remove the bulb syringe from the crib when finished.

Answer 1

C

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A The nasal passages should be suctioned one nostril at a time. The mouth should always be suctioned first.
B After compression of the bulb, it should be inserted into one side of the mouth. If it is inserted into the center of the mouth, the gag reflex is likely to be in-itiated.
C The mouth should be suctioned first to prevent the infant from inhaling pharyn-geal secretions by gasping as the nares are suctioned.
D When the infant's cry no longer sounds as though it is coming through mucus or a bubble, suctioning can be stopped. The bulb syringe should remain in the crib so that it is easily accessible if needed again.