A nurse in a long-term care facility is caring for a client who is unresponsive. When performing oral hygiene for the client, which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Turn the client on his side before starting oral care.
Use a stiff toothbrush to clean the client's teeth.
Apply petroleum jelly to the client's lips after oral care.
Use the thumb and index finger to keep the client's mouth open.
The Correct Answer is A
A. This is a crucial step to prevent aspiration (the inhalation of oral contents into the lungs). Turning the client on their side helps to facilitate drainage and prevents oral fluids and debris from entering the airway during oral care.
B. Using a stiff toothbrush can be harmful to the gums and oral tissues, especially for clients who are unresponsive and may not be able to indicate discomfort. A soft-bristled toothbrush or moistened gauze is recommended for cleaning the teeth and gums to prevent injury and maintain oral hygiene effectively.
C. Applying petroleum jelly or a similar barrier ointment helps to moisturize and protect the lips from dryness and cracking, which can be common in clients who are unresponsive and may not be able to moisten their lips independently.
D. Using the thumb and index finger to keep the client's mouth open is gentle and effective. This technique allows the nurse to visualize and clean the oral cavity adequately without causing discomfort or injury to the client.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Place the client in a high Fowler's position:High Fowler’s would increase intra-abdominal pressure and strain sutures. For peritonitis recovery, semi-Fowler’s is preferred-promotes drainage of peritoneal fluid into the pelvis, preventing spread to diaphragm and lungs.
B. Ambulate the client twice daily:Too early after peritonitis lavage. Initially, the client is very weak, at risk for sepsis/shock. Early ambulation is not a priority here.
C. Mark abdominal girth once daily:Abdominal girth measurement is important to monitor for distention, fluid accumulation, or bleeding. Marking ensures accuracy in repeated measurements. This is a key intervention in monitoring postop peritonitis.
D. Irrigate the nasogastric tube with tap water:Never irrigate with tap water (risk of electrolyte imbalance, infection). Only sterile normal saline or as prescribed is used.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Bananas are a good source of potassium. They contain approximately 422 mg of potassium per medium-sized banana. Including bananas in the diet can help replenish potassium levels in clients who are at risk of hypokalemia due to medications like furosemide.
B. Cheddar cheese is not a significant source of potassium. It contains only trace amounts of potassium. Therefore, it would not be beneficial for increasing potassium levels.
C. White rice is very low in potassium. It does not contribute significantly to potassium intake. Therefore, it would not be helpful for addressing hypokalemia.
D. Cabbage is also low in potassium. While it has some nutritional value, it does not provide a significant amount of potassium compared to other foods.
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