A nurse is performing nasopharyngeal suctioning for an adult client. Which of the following techniques should the nurse use?

A. In adults insert catheter approximately 16 cm (6.5 inches); in older children, 8– 12 cm (3–5 inches); in infants and young children, 4–7.5 cm (1.5–3 inches). Rule of thumb is to insert catheter distance from tip of nose (or mouth) to angle of mandible. B. Suction should not be applied while inserting the catheter, as it could cause trauma to the mucosa and increase discomfort. Suction should only be applied while withdrawing the catheter, and it should be done intermittently to avoid injury and reduce the risk of hypoxia. C. Suctioning should not exceed 10-15 seconds at a time to prevent hypoxia and other complications. Prolonged suctioning can lead to oxygen depletion and potential respiratory distress in the client. D. Waiting at least 1 minute between suctioning attempts allows the client to recover and helps maintain adequate oxygenation. This pause is essential to prevent hypoxia and to ensure the client has time to breathe normally before the next suctioning attempt.