Certified Respiratory Therapist Practice Exam

Instilling 10 mL of sterile saline before suctioning is a practice that helps to hydrate and clear the airway, making the suctioning process more effective. While this action specifically aids in keeping the airways clear and reducing the risk of blockage by thick secretions, it also plays a significant role in minimizing the risk of cross-contamination. When sterile saline is used, it ensures that the suctioning process does not introduce contaminants from unsterile sources. This is particularly important in a healthcare setting, where maintaining a sterile environment is crucial to preventing infections.

Using sterile saline helps to ensure that the material being suctioned does not carry pathogens or other infectious agents that could potentially compromise the patient's safety. In contrast, methods involving the use of a single catheter for multiple patients or rinsing with non-sterile solutions could lead to the transmission of infections, thereby increasing the risk of cross-contamination.