Which of the following is a step for suctioning an airway?

Suctioning an airway effectively begins with the proper insertion of the catheter. This step is essential as it allows for the removal of secretions or foreign materials that may be obstructing the airway. The catheter must be carefully inserted into the trachea or the airway path, allowing the caregiver to reach the area that needs clearing. Inserting the catheter correctly is critical to ensuring that suctioning can be performed safely and efficiently, thereby helping to maintain airway patency.

Other steps, such as applying suction or positioning the patient, are indeed important, but they typically follow this initial insertion step. Administering steroids prior to suctioning is not a standard practice, as steroids do not have a direct role in the suctioning process itself. Additionally, while positioning the patient upright can be beneficial in many cases, it does not necessarily apply to all suctioning scenarios, and some patients may require different positions for optimal airway access and safety.