What is the maximum suction time per attempt for an adult airway?

What is the maximum suction time per attempt for an adult airway?

• A. 5 seconds
• B. 7 seconds
• C. 8 seconds
• D. 10 seconds

Answer: (D)

The main idea is that suctioning an airway is limited to a short burst to prevent depriving the patient of oxygen. For an adult airway, you should suction for no more than 10 seconds per attempt. This maximum helps avoid rapid desaturation and potential adverse effects like hypoxia or bradycardia. Before you start, pre-oxygenate if possible, then apply suction for up to 10 seconds. If the airway remains obstructed, remove the suction, re-oxygenate, and then perform another brief suction pass. (Shorter durations are used for pediatric patients.)

The main idea is that suctioning an airway is limited to a short burst to prevent depriving the patient of oxygen. For an adult airway, you should suction for no more than 10 seconds per attempt. This maximum helps avoid rapid desaturation and potential adverse effects like hypoxia or bradycardia. Before you start, pre-oxygenate if possible, then apply suction for up to 10 seconds. If the airway remains obstructed, remove the suction, re-oxygenate, and then perform another brief suction pass. (Shorter durations are used for pediatric patients.)