Nursing in the United States is regulated by the state nurse practice act. What is a common element of each state’s nurse practice act?

A. Wash the client’s face:

While washing the client's face might be part of general care, when specifically providing oral care for a client with dentures, the first step should be to don gloves to ensure infection control and safety.

B. Remove dentures:

Removing dentures may be a step in the oral care process, but it should come after donning gloves to maintain proper infection control measures.

C. Apply lubricant:

Applying lubricant might be necessary, especially if the client experiences dryness or discomfort, but it should follow the step of donning gloves.

D. Don gloves:

This is the first action because it is crucial to wear gloves before handling a client's dentures or engaging in any oral care procedures. Gloves protect both the nurse and the client from potential infections and ensure proper hygiene during care.

A. To prevent contractions in the hand:

The use of hand and wrist rolls helps prevent contractures, which are permanent shortening of muscles or joints. This is particularly important in comatose patients or those with limited mobility to maintain proper hand positioning and prevent deformities.

B. To prevent skin breakdown:

While proper positioning can contribute to preventing skin breakdown, the primary purpose of hand and wrist rolls, in this context, is to address the risk of contractures rather than skin breakdown.

C. To prevent decreased perfusion in the lower extremities:

The action described is specifically related to the hands and wrists, not the lower extremities. It is not designed to prevent decreased perfusion in the lower extremities.

D. To prevent pooling of blood in the hand:

While maintaining proper hand positioning may contribute to optimal circulation, the primary purpose is to prevent contractures rather than addressing blood pooling.