A nurse is reinforcing teaching with the partner of a client who is receiving hospice care about music therapy for pain management. Which of the following statements by the partner indicates an understanding of the teaching?

The correct answer is choice C. Clean the stoma using an inward to outward circular motion.

Choice A rationale:

Cleansing the inner cannula with isopropyl alcohol is not recommended because it can be irritating to the mucosa. Instead, the inner cannula should be cleaned with sterile saline or a prescribed solution.

Choice B rationale:

Preparing sterile supplies after removing the inner cannula is not the correct sequence. Sterile supplies should be prepared before starting the procedure to maintain sterility and efficiency.

Choice C rationale:

Cleaning the stoma using an inward to outward circular motion is correct because it helps to prevent the spread of microorganisms from the outer skin to the stoma site, reducing the risk of infection.

Choice D rationale:

Ensuring at least three finger widths of space under tracheostomy ties is incorrect. The correct practice is to ensure that only one to two finger widths can fit under the tracheostomy ties to ensure they are secure but not too tight.

Choice A reason:

"I should gargle with an alcohol-based mouthwash to kill germs”. This statement is not appropriate. Using an alcohol-based mouthwash is not recommended for a client with stomatitis. Alcohol can be irritating to the already inflamed mucous membranes and may worsen the condition. Instead, the client should use a mild, non-alcohol-based mouthwash or rinse as prescribed by the healthcare provider.

Choice B option

"I should limit my intake of dairy products to prevent nausea." This statement is not appropriate. While some clients may experience nausea during radiation therapy, limiting dairy products is not specifically related to stomatitis management. The client should follow any dietary recommendations provided by the healthcare provider or a registered dietitian to address nausea or other dietary concerns.

Choice C option

"I should moisten my lips with lemon-glycerine swabs." This is incorrect because lemon-glycerine swabs can be drying and irritating to the oral mucosa, which may exacerbate stomatitis symptoms. Instead, using a gentle, non-irritating lip balm or petroleum jelly is preferred.

Choice D option

"I should use a soft-bristle toothbrush to clean my teeth after meals. “This response indicates an understanding of the teaching because a soft-bristle toothbrush is gentle on the gums and oral tissues, which is important for a client with stomatitis, as it helps to minimize irritation and injury.