A nurse is providing oral care for a client who had has impaired upper extremity strength. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Provide the client with an electric toothbrush.
Give the client an alcohol-based mouth wash.
Give the client lemon-glycerin mouth swabs.
Provide the client with a spool of dental floss.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Provide the client with an electric toothbrush: An electric toothbrush is an appropriate option for a client with impaired upper extremity strength. It requires less physical effort to use compared to a manual toothbrush, making it easier for the client to maintain oral hygiene effectively. The powered brushing action can help ensure more thorough cleaning of the teeth and gums.
B. Give the client an alcohol-based mouth wash: Alcohol-based mouthwashes can be irritating to the oral mucosa, especially in clients who may have dry mouth or other oral health issues. Instead, a non-alcoholic mouthwash or rinse should be considered to promote comfort and effective oral care.
C. Give the client lemon-glycerin mouth swabs: Lemon-glycerin swabs are not recommended for oral care, as they can be irritating and may cause dryness in the mouth. Additionally, lemon can be acidic and potentially harm the enamel of the teeth. It is better to use products designed for sensitive oral care.
D. Provide the client with a spool of dental floss: While dental floss is important for maintaining oral hygiene, using it requires manual dexterity and strength that may be difficult for a client with impaired upper extremity strength. Instead, alternatives such as floss holders or interdental brushes could be suggested, but the initial focus should be on ensuring the client can effectively brush their teeth.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. 18: A score of 18 on the Braden Scale indicates that the patient is at low risk for skin breakdown. The Braden Scale scores range from 6 to 23, with lower scores indicating higher risk. A score of 18 or above suggests that the implemented interventions have effectively reduced the risk of skin impairment, making this the best sign that the risk for skin breakdown has been removed.
B. 13: A score of 13 indicates moderate risk for skin breakdown. While this is an improvement from a score of 15, it still shows that the patient remains at risk and requires ongoing monitoring and intervention.
C. 23: A score of 23 indicates very low risk for skin breakdown; however, it is not a feasible score for patients who were initially assessed at 15. Achieving this score would likely suggest an unrealistic improvement in the patient's condition based solely on nursing interventions.
D. 12: A score of 12 indicates a high risk for skin breakdown. This score signifies that the risk has not been effectively addressed, and the patient continues to be vulnerable to skin impairment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Vigorously brush the client's teeth: Vigorous brushing is not appropriate for an unconscious client. It can cause trauma to the gums or teeth and increase the risk of aspiration if the client has any residual secretions or fluids in the mouth. Gentle brushing should be employed to avoid injury.
B. Hold the toothbrush at a 90° angle: Holding the toothbrush at a 90° angle is not necessary for clients who are unconscious. A more effective angle may be around 45° to effectively clean the surfaces of the teeth while minimizing the risk of gagging or aspiration.
C. Place two fingers in the client's mouth: This action could be harmful, as placing fingers in the mouth of an unconscious client poses a risk of injury or could inadvertently trigger a gag reflex. Instead, proper oral care should be conducted using appropriate tools without placing fingers inside the mouth.
D. Turn the client to the side: Turning the client to the side is the best action as it helps prevent aspiration of secretions or fluids during oral care. This position allows for safer access to the mouth while also promoting drainage of any excess fluids, reducing the risk of choking or aspiration pneumonia.
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