Which action would the nurse take first for a patient with a tracheostomy who appears anxious and is having difficulty in coughing up thick respiratory secretion?

A. Exercising safe sex practices, especially in regard to human papillomavirus (HPV), is important because HPV is a known risk factor for head and neck cancers, particularly oropharyngeal cancers. Safe sex practices, including the use of barriers like condoms, can reduce the risk of HPV infection.
B. Reducing smoking to half a pack/day is still a significant risk factor for head and neck cancer. The best approach is to quit smoking completely, as even small amounts of tobacco use increase the risk of cancer.
C. Alcohol consumption is a known risk factor for head and neck cancer, particularly when combined with smoking. The nurse should educate the client to limit alcohol intake or avoid it altogether.
D. Using harsh toothpastes or mouthwashes does not significantly affect the risk of head and neck cancer. However, maintaining good oral hygiene is important for overall health.

A. Placing the patient in a lateral recovery position is the best immediate action. This position helps facilitate drainage of secretions, especially after a laryngectomy, which can reduce the risk of aspiration and airway obstruction. The blood-tinged mucus may be due to recent surgery and should be monitored for changes.
B. The activation of the rapid-response team may be necessary if the patient’s condition worsens or becomes critical, but there is no indication of an acute life-threatening event based on the blood-tinged mucus alone.
C. Monitoring the oxygen saturation and respiratory rate is important, but it is a secondary concern compared to providing a position that promotes drainage and prevents aspiration.
D. Increasing humidification of the oxygen may help keep the airway moist, but the immediate priority should be ensuring proper positioning to allow secretion drainage and prevent aspiration.