During an assessment, which finding suggests effective suctioning has occurred?

The finding indicating effective suctioning is a decreased respiratory rate with no wheezing. When suctioning is performed correctly, it helps to clear secretions from the airways, which can lead to improved airflow and oxygenation. A decrease in respiratory rate can signify that the patient is experiencing less respiratory distress and that the airways are clearer, allowing for a more regular breathing pattern. Additionally, the absence of wheezing implies that there is no significant bronchial obstruction or inflammation following the procedure, suggesting that the suctioning was successful in alleviating any obstruction caused by mucus or secretions.

In contrast, an elevated heart rate may suggest increased respiratory effort or discomfort, which would not necessarily reflect successful suctioning. Coughing without sputum clearance indicates that secretions may still be present in the airways, suggesting that suctioning has not been effective. The presence of bubbling breath sounds can indicate that there are still fluid or secretions in the airways, rather than the clear, unobstructed sound that would imply successful suctioning.