Which statement best describes the initial airway clearance technique for a newborn during resuscitation?

• A. bulb suction
• B. inline suction catheter
• C. endotracheal suction
• D. DeLee suction trap device

Answer: (A)

Clearing the airway quickly and noninvasively is the first step to establish effective ventilation. The best choice is bulb suction because it lets you remove secretions from the mouth and nose rapidly without needing more advanced equipment. The usual sequence is to suction the mouth first, then the nostrils, squeezing the bulb to create suction and releasing as you withdraw. This helps prevent secretions from being drawn into the lungs and supports a clear airway for breathing or ventilation.

Other methods require an airway or special tools and are not used as the initial step: inline suction catheter is used with a patient who already has an airway device, endotracheal suction is performed only after intubation, and DeLee suction traps are outdated and not the first-line approach. If the newborn is vigorous and breathing well, suctioning may not be needed at all.