Certified Respiratory Therapist Practice Exam

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Prepare for the Certified Respiratory Therapist Exam with our engaging quiz, complete with multiple-choice questions and detailed explanations. Boost your confidence and knowledge before test day!

Each practice test/flash card set has 50 randomly selected questions from a bank of over 500. You'll get a new set of questions each time!

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Which action helps minimize the risk of cross-contamination during suctioning?

Using one catheter for multiple patients
Instilling 10 mL sterile saline before suctioning
Using saline from a tap for rinsing
Clearing the catheter with room temperature water

The correct answer is: Instilling 10 mL sterile saline before suctioning

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.