Choice D rationale:

When suctioning patients with an artificial airway, using disposable plastic catheters is preferred to reduce the risk of infection. Disposable catheters are single-use and discarded after each procedure, minimizing the potential for contamination and cross-infection between patients.

Choice A rationale:

Glass suctioning catheters are not preferred because they cannot be effectively sterilized for reuse. Reusable materials carry a higher risk of infection transmission and should be avoided when possible.

Choice B rationale:

Metal suctioning catheters are also not the preferred choice for reducing the risk of infection. Like glass catheters, they can be difficult to clean and sterilize adequately for safe reuse. Using disposable materials, like plastic catheters, is a safer option.

Choice C rationale:

While reusable silicone catheters may be more flexible and gentler on the airway, they are not the preferred choice for infection control. Like other reusable materials, they carry a higher risk of contamination and are not as easily disposed of as disposable plastic catheters.