Respiratory: Oropharyngeal Suctioning

Oropharyngeal suctioning is a procedure used to remove secretions from the oral cavity and pharynx. Secretions can block the trachea and obstruct the normal airflow, which can lead to an insufficient oxygen supplyNormally, clients cough to remove these secretions, but some individuals are too weak or cannot cough, so these clients require suctioning to clear the airwayGenerally, the nursing assistants should alert the nurse if they think a client requires suctioning. They can assist the licensed nurse in oropharyngeal suctioning by gathering the required supplies.