Which therapy is least invasive and can be used to rid secretions from the upper airway?

Oropharyngeal suctioning is considered the least invasive option among the therapies listed for clearing secretions from the upper airway. It involves the use of a suction catheter inserted into the mouth and oropharynx to remove secretions, which can be performed easily and quickly at the bedside without the need for advanced skills or equipment. This method does not enter the trachea or lower airway, thereby minimizing risks associated with more invasive procedures.

In contrast, other therapies such as nasal tracheal suctioning involve inserting a catheter into the trachea through the nose, which is more invasive and carries the risk of complications such as trauma to the nasal passages and potential introduction of pathogens into the lower airway.

Postural drainage involves positioning the patient in specific ways to facilitate the drainage of secretions from various parts of the lung, which can be effective but requires more time and effort, and it is not directly targeted at the upper airway.

Chest physiotherapy incorporates manual techniques to assist secretion clearance; while effective, it is more invasive than oropharyngeal suctioning and can involve physical manipulation, which may not be appropriate for all patients.

Therefore, oropharyngeal suctioning is the least invasive and directly targets the removal of secret