Proper technique for suctioning the oropharynx of an adult patient includes:

• A. Continuously suctioning patients with copious oral secretions.
• B. Removing large, solid objects with a tonsil-tip suction catheter.
• C. Suctioning for up to 1 minute if the patient is well oxygenated.
• D. Suctioning while withdrawing the catheter from the oropharynx.

Answer: (D)

Proper suction technique focuses on removing secretions safely while protecting the airway and keeping oxygenation intact. The best method is to insert the suction catheter into the mouth to reach the oropharynx, then apply suction while withdrawing the catheter from the oropharynx, using a gentle rotation to sweep secretions away as you pull back. This approach minimizes stimulation and avoids pushing secretions deeper into the airway, and it allows you to remove material efficiently as you withdraw. Keep each suction pass short—about 10 seconds or less—and pause to re-oxygenate between attempts.

Continuously suctioning when secretions are heavy can lead to hypoxia and mucosal injury, so intermittent suctioning is preferred. Using a tonsil-tip suction catheter to grab large solid objects isn’t appropriate—foreign bodies require different tools and techniques. Suctioning for as long as a full minute, even if the patient seems well-oxygenated, is too long and increases the risk of hypoxia; brief passes with rest periods are safer.