A nurse is providing an educational session on vaccines to a group of older adults. The nurse is discussing the zoster vaccine Shingrix. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the education?

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because providing antiseptic mouthwash (such as Listerine) for the patient can worsen xerostomia, or dry mouth. Antiseptic mouthwash can contain alcohol, which can dry out the oral mucosa and reduce saliva production. Saliva is important for lubricating the mouth, preventing infections, and facilitating chewing and swallowing. Therefore, antiseptic mouthwash should be avoided or used sparingly in patients with xerostomia.

Choice B reason: This is correct because encouraging the patient to brush and floss teeth regularly can help prevent dental caries, gingivitis, and periodontitis, which are common complications of xerostomia. Xerostomia can increase the risk of oral infections and tooth decay, as saliva helps wash away food particles, bacteria, and plaque. Therefore, oral hygiene is essential for patients with xerostomia.

Choice C reason: This is correct because encouraging the patient to drink water frequently can help moisten the mouth and relieve the discomfort of xerostomia. Water can also help flush out food debris and bacteria, and prevent dehydration, which can exacerbate xerostomia. Therefore, water intake is beneficial for patients with xerostomia.

Choice D reason: This is correct because providing saliva substitutes can help mimic the functions of natural saliva and improve the symptoms of xerostomia. Saliva substitutes are artificial saliva products that contain water, electrolytes, and lubricants, such as glycerin, carboxymethylcellulose, or xylitol. They can be applied as sprays, gels, rinses, or lozenges, and can help lubricate the mouth, prevent infections, and facilitate chewing and swallowing. Therefore, saliva substitutes are useful for patients with xerostomia.

Choice A reason: Performing all activities of daily living (ADLs) and then resting is not a good instruction for the older adult who has COPD, as it can cause fatigue, shortness of breath, and anxiety. The nurse would advise the older adult to pace themselves and prioritize the most important activities, and to take breaks between tasks.

Choice B reason: Bathing and eating slowly with periodic rest is a good instruction for the older adult who has COPD, as it can help conserve energy, prevent dyspnea, and improve digestion. The nurse would advise the older adult to use a shower chair or a handheld showerhead, to avoid hot water or steam, and to use a fan or an open window for ventilation. The nurse would also advise the older adult to eat small, frequent meals, to avoid foods that cause gas or bloating, and to drink fluids between meals rather than with them.

Choice C reason: Walking short distances without oxygen is not a safe instruction for the older adult who has COPD, as it can cause hypoxia, which is a low level of oxygen in the blood. The nurse would advise the older adult to use oxygen therapy as prescribed by their doctor, and to monitor their oxygen saturation with a pulse oximeter. The nurse would also advise the older adult to exercise regularly, but to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration, and to stop if they feel dizzy, chest pain, or severe breathlessness.

Choice D reason: Bathing right after eating and then resting is not a helpful instruction for the older adult who has COPD, as it can cause indigestion, reflux, or aspiration. The nurse would advise the older adult to wait at least an hour after eating before bathing, and to avoid lying down right after eating or bathing. The nurse would also advise the older adult to elevate their head with pillows when resting or sleeping, and to avoid napping during the day.