A nurse is caring for an adult client who requires nasopharyngeal suctioning. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Rationale A. Set the suction device to 120 mm Hg: Adult nasopharyngeal suctioning requires suction pressure between 100 and 150 mm Hg to effectively remove secretions without damaging mucosal tissue. Setting the device to 120 mm Hg falls safely within this range and provides adequate negative pressure for efficient suctioning. B. Apply suction to the catheter during insertion: Suction should never be applied during catheter insertion because it increases the risk of mucosal injury and can cause hypoxia. The catheter must be inserted gently to the appropriate depth before suctioning is activated on withdrawal. This helps protect the airway structures and maintains patient safety during the procedure. C. Have the client tuck his chin to his chest during suctioning: The chin-to-chest position narrows the airway passage and makes catheter insertion more difficult. Nasopharyngeal suctioning requires the "sniffing" position, where the head is slightly extended to align the airway for smoother catheter passage. D. Apply a petroleum-based lubricant to the catheter: Petroleum-based lubricants should not be used because they can irritate mucous membranes and pose a risk if aspirated. Water-soluble lubricants are recommended since they reduce friction, minimize trauma, and dissolve easily if small amounts enter the airway.