Field Internship Student Data Acquisition Project. (FISDAP) Airway Practice Exam

What is the maximum suction time recommended for adults during a suctioning procedure?

1. 5 seconds

2. 10 seconds

3. 15 seconds

4. 20 seconds

The correct answer is: 15 seconds

In airway management, the recommended maximum suction time for adults is 15 seconds. This guideline is established to prevent hypoxemia and minimize trauma to the mucosa of the airway. Suctioning is a critical intervention that removes secretions, blood, and other obstructions to maintain a clear airway, but prolonged suctioning can lead to complications such as decreased oxygen saturation and damage to airway tissues. The rationale for limiting suction time to 15 seconds is based on the physiological consideration that during this procedure, oxygen delivery to the lungs is temporarily interrupted. Allowing suctioning beyond this recommended duration increases the risk of rapid desaturation in patients, especially those who may already have compromised respiratory function. Additionally, suctioning should be followed by an adequate period for reoxygenation; thus, keeping the suction time to a maximum of 15 seconds provides a balance between effectively clearing the airway and ensuring patient safety and comfort.