A nurse is preparing to remove an NG tube for a client who is postoperative following colon surgery. In which order should the nurse perform the following steps?

(Move the steps into the box on the right, placing them in the order of performance. Use all the steps.)

Choice A Reason:

Applying intermittent suction for up to 30 seconds is incorrect. While suctioning is necessary for tracheostomy care, the duration and frequency of suctioning should be based on the client's need and should typically last no more than 10-15 seconds to prevent hypoxemia and tissue damage.

Choice B Reason:

Preoxygenate the client prior to suctioning is correct. Preoxygenation helps ensure that the client has adequate oxygen levels before the suctioning procedure, reducing the risk of hypoxemia or decreased oxygen levels during and after suctioning

Choice C Reason:

Instruct the client to swallow during catheter insertion is incorrect. Instructing the client to swallow during catheter insertion is not a standard procedure for tracheostomy care. Swallowing doesn't have a direct association with the suctioning process.

Choice D Reason:

Apply suction while inserting the catheter is incorrect. Applying suction during catheter insertion can cause tissue damage and should be avoided. Suction should only be applied when withdrawing the catheter to remove secretions from the tracheostomy tube.

Choice A Reason :

Increased peripheral circulation is incorrect. As people age, changes in the cardiovascular system can occur, but increased peripheral circulation isn't a common physiological change. In fact, aging might lead to reduced elasticity in blood vessels, potentially resulting in decreased circulation to some areas.

Choice B Reason:

Increased saliva production is incorrect: Saliva production doesn't usually increase with age. Instead, certain medications, medical conditions, or treatments might impact saliva production. Aging itself doesn't commonly cause an increase in saliva production; in fact, it can decrease due to changes in salivary glands.

Choice C Reason:

Increased constipation is correct. As individuals age, there can be changes in gastrointestinal motility and muscle tone, which can contribute to an increased likelihood of constipation.

Choice D Reason:

Decreased muscle mass is correct. Aging often leads to a natural decline in muscle mass and strength, known as sarcopenia, which can affect mobility and overall physical function.

Choice E Reason:

Decreased cough reflex is correct. With aging, the cough reflex might become less sensitive or effective, which can impact the ability to clear the airways efficiently.