The nurse is suctioning an infant after delivery. Which statement reflects the correct procedure for clearing the infant's airway?

a) Suction the mouth before the nose
b) Suction the nose before the mouth
c) Use a bulb syringe to suction the mouth and nose simultaneously
d) Suction the mouth and then the nose, using a bulb syringe for each

The correct procedure for clearing an infant's airway after delivery is to suction the mouth before the nose, using a bulb syringe to clear each area separately and ensure that the airways are free of obstructions for the first critical breaths. The correct option is (a).

Explanation:

The correct procedure for clearing an infant's airway after delivery is to suction the mouth before the nose. This is because sucking out the nose first might cause the infant to gasp and potentially inhale any secretions remaining in the mouth into the lungs.

To properly carry out the suctioning process, a bulb syringe or similar device should be used to gently clear the mouth first and then the nose. Each area should be suctioned separately to avoid pushing mucus from one area to the other.

Immediately following birth, healthcare providers focus on ensuring that the newborn's airway is clear to facilitate breathing. The first breath of the infant is critically important, as it helps to inflate the lungs and establish normal blood flow and oxygen exchange after the cord is cut.