An older adult reports symptoms of xerostomia. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement for this patient? (Select all that apply.)
Provide antiseptic mouthwash (such as Listerine) for the patient.
Encourage the patient to brush and floss teeth regularly.
Encourage the patient to drink water frequently.
Provide saliva substitutes.
Correct Answer : B,C,D
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Changing facial expression is not a likely action to be observed during the assessment, as PD causes reduced facial expression or mask-like face. The client may have difficulty blinking, smiling, or showing emotions.
Choice B reason: Frequent movement is not a likely action to be observed during the assessment, as PD causes slowed movement or bradykinesia. The client may have difficulty initiating, continuing, or completing movements.
Choice C reason: Resting hand tremors is a likely action to be observed during the assessment, as PD causes rhythmic shaking of the hands, fingers, or other body parts. The tremors usually occur when the affected limb is at rest and may decrease when the client is performing tasks.
Choice D reason: Fast movements is not a likely action to be observed during the assessment, as PD causes impaired movement or dyskinesia. The client may have involuntary, jerky, or twisting movements that are often unpredictable and uncontrollable.
Choice E reason: None of the above is not the correct answer, as there is one choice that is a likely action to be observed during the assessment.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Over-the-counter NSAIDs are generally harmless is not a true statement, as NSAIDs can cause serious adverse effects in older adults, such as gastrointestinal bleeding, renal impairment, hypertension, and heart failure. NSAIDs should be used with caution and under medical supervision in older adults.
Choice B reason: Stool softeners and laxatives should be used with opioids is a true statement, as opioids can cause constipation in older adults, which can lead to discomfort, abdominal pain, fecal impaction, and bowel obstruction. Stool softeners and laxatives can help prevent and treat constipation and promote regular bowel movements.
Choice C reason: Opioids are less effective in older clients than in younger clients is not a true statement, as opioids can have the same or even greater analgesic effect in older adults, depending on the dose, route, and duration of administration. However, opioids can also cause more side effects in older adults, such as sedation, confusion, respiratory depression, and falls. Opioids should be used with caution and under medical supervision in older adults.
Choice D reason: The dose limit for acetaminophen is difficult to reach for older adults is not a true statement, as older adults may be more susceptible to acetaminophen toxicity, especially if they have liver disease, malnutrition, or chronic alcohol use. The dose limit for acetaminophen is 4 grams per day for adults, but it may be lower for older adults or those with risk factors. Acetaminophen should be used with caution and under medical supervision in older adults.
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