What is the most significant complication associated with oropharyngeal suctioning?

• A. clogging of the catheter with thick secretions.
• B. vomiting from stimulating the anterior airway.
• C. oral abrasions from vigorous suctioning.
• D. hypoxia due to prolonged suction attempts.

Answer: (D)

When suctioning the oropharynx, the biggest risk is hypoxia from interrupting ventilation and removing oxygen from the airway during the procedure. Negative pressure draws secretions out but also reduces the amount of air and oxygen reaching the lungs, which can quickly lower oxygen saturation if suction passes are prolonged or repeated without giving the patient a chance to reoxygenate. To minimize this risk, preoxygenate when possible, keep each suction pass brief (about 5–10 seconds), and ventilate or provide oxygen between passes. Monitoring the patient’s SpO2 is essential during the procedure.

Other potential issues, like clogging from thick secretions, vomiting from airway stimulation, or oral abrasions from aggressive suctioning, can occur but are less life-threatening than the immediate danger of hypoxia.