down.
Question 4
Which action is appropriate before providing oral care to an unconscious patient?
Your Answer:
Turn on the suction machine.
Rationale:
The nurse should never assume that an unconscious person is unable to hear and should always explain procedures to the patient. A thin layer of water-soluble moisturizer is applied to the patient’s lips at the end of oral care. The suction machine is used mostly for patients with an impaired gag reflex caused by a change in consciousness or a neurologic injury. The nurse should never place fingers into an unconscious or debilitated patient’s mouth; the normal response is to bite down.
Question 5
Which of the following should be used to provide oral hygiene for unconscious or debilitated patients with a sore mouth or no teeth?
Your Answer:
Gauze wrapped around a gloved finger
Rationale:
For patients with a sore mouth or no teeth, a water-moistened foam stick applicator minimizes trauma to the oral mucosa and the gums. A toothbrush may be too harsh. The nurse should never place fingers into an unconscious or debilitated patient’s mouth; the normal response is to bite down, and even if the patient has no teeth, a clenched jaw can cause harm. Lemon and glycerin swabs are not recommended as they dry the oral mucosa.