A nurse in a long-term care facility is taking care of a patient who is unresponsive. What action should the nurse take when performing oral hygiene for the patient?
Turn the patient on their side before starting oral care.
Apply petroleum jelly to the patient’s lips after oral care.
Use the thumb and index finger to keep the patient’s mouth open.
Use a stiff toothbrush to clean the patient’s teeth.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Turning the patient on their side before starting oral care is a recommended practice when caring for an unresponsive patient. This position helps prevent aspiration, which can occur if the patient cannot swallow properly.
Choice B rationale
Applying petroleum jelly to the patient’s lips after oral care can help prevent dryness and cracking. However, it’s not the primary action the nurse should take when performing oral hygiene for an unresponsive patient.
Choice C rationale
Using the thumb and index finger to keep the patient’s mouth open is not recommended. It can cause discomfort and potential injury to the patient.
Choice D rationale
Using a stiff toothbrush to clean the patient’s teeth is not recommended. A soft toothbrush is usually used to clean the teeth of an unresponsive patient to prevent damage to the gums.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Applying the pulse oximeter probe to the toe might not provide an accurate reading if the client has poor peripheral circulation. Additionally, thickened toenails can interfere with the reading.
Choice B rationale
Edema in the hands can affect the accuracy of a pulse oximeter reading. The probe might not fit properly or provide a reliable reading if the finger is swollen.
Choice C rationale
Applying the pulse oximeter probe to a skin fold is not recommended. The probe needs to be placed on a relatively flat, thin area of skin to accurately measure oxygen saturation.
Choice D rationale
The earlobe is a suitable alternative site for pulse oximetry if the fingers and toes are not viable options. The earlobe is typically less affected by peripheral vasoconstriction, which can occur with hypothermia, certain medications, and certain diseases. Therefore, Choice D is the correct answer.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While it is important to ensure that restraints are not too tight, the issue in this scenario is not related to the tightness of the restraints.
Choice B rationale
Restraints should be tied with a slipknot to allow for quick release if necessary. A double knot may be difficult to untie quickly in an emergency.
Choice C rationale
Restraint straps should not be tied to the side rails. If the side rails are lowered, the restraints could become too loose.
Choice D rationale
The padding under the wrist restraints should not be removed. The padding helps to prevent skin damage and increase the comfort of the patient.
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