A nurse is caring for a child who has a tracheostomy. After suctioning the tracheostomy, the nurse should use which of the following findings to determine that the procedure was effective?

The correct answer is B: Clear breath sounds. After suctioning a tracheostomy, clear breath sounds indicate that the airway is patent and free of secretions, demonstrating effective removal of mucus. Brisk capillary refill (A) assesses peripheral circulation, not airway clearance. Increased respiratory rate (C) may indicate respiratory distress, not necessarily effectiveness of suctioning. Stable oxygen saturation (D) is important but does not directly confirm airway clearance.