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. This description is more indicative of a stage 1 pressure ulcer, where the skin is intact but shows non- blanchable redness. Stage 1 ulcers do not involve skin loss.
B. This description might indicate a stage 2 pressure ulcer, where there is partial-thickness skin loss involving the epidermis and/or dermis. Stage 2 ulcers are characterized by shallow open ulcers with a red- pink wound bed, without slough.
C. This description accurately defines a stage 3 pressure ulcer. Stage 3 ulcers involve full-thickness skin loss where adipose (fat) tissue may be visible, but deeper structures such as muscle, tendon, and bone are not exposed.
D. Slough refers to yellow, tan, gray, green, or brown necrotic tissue in the wound bed that must be removed to facilitate wound healing. Slough can be present in both stage 3 and stage 4 pressure ulcers, where stage 4 involves full-thickness skin loss with exposure of muscle, bone, or supporting structures.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Apples are a good source of fiber, with about 4.4 grams of fiber in a medium-sized apple with the skin. Apples contain soluble and insoluble fiber, which can aid in digestion and help prevent constipation. This is a suitable choice for a high-fiber snack.
B. Almonds are nutritious and provide fiber, but they are not as high in fiber compared to other options like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. One ounce of almonds contains about 3.5 grams of fiber. While almonds are beneficial, they are not typically the primary choice for increasing fiber intake to alleviate constipation.
C. Bran cereals are often recommended for their high fiber content. Half a cup of bran cereal can provide around 10 grams of fiber or more, depending on the brand and type. Bran cereals are particularly rich in insoluble fiber, which adds bulk to stool and helps promote regular bowel movements. This is an excellent choice for increasing fiber intake to manage constipation.
D. Sweet potatoes are nutritious and contain dietary fiber, with about 3.8 grams of fiber in half a cup of cooked sweet potatoes. While they contribute to fiber intake, they generally do not provide as much fiber compared to options like whole grains or bran cereals.
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