MEDizzy - A nurse is caring for an 11-month-old infant diagnosed with

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Safety and Infection Control

A nurse is caring for an 11-month-old infant diagnosed with bronchopulmonary dysplasia. The infant has a tracheostomy with 30% supplemental oxygen being provided via the tracheostomy. The infant has a decline in oxygen saturations from 96% to 87% and appears anxious and restless. Which action should be taken by the nurse?

ExplanationSuctioning the tracheostomy should be the first priority in caring for this infant. Many tracheostomies require frequent suctioning to re- move secretions and mucous plugs. Increasing the oxygen rate will not be effective if the airway is occluded by secretions. Obtaining ABGs may be helpful if oxygen saturations remain low after suctioning and the infant remains in distress, but clearing the airway should be priority. Medicating for anxiety and pain would not improve oxygen saturations if the airway is not patent due to secretions. Medicating the infant may reduce respiratory drive and cause further distress.