A male client with a nasogastric tube connected to low intermittent suction tells the nurse that his mouth is very dry. Which action should the nurse implement?

Choice A Reason: This is incorrect because instilling normal saline solution into the nasogastric tube can cause fluid overload, electrolyte imbalance, or aspiration. Clamping the tube for one hour can also increase the risk of aspiration and gastric distension.

Choice B Reason: This is incorrect because turning the suction off can cause gastric distension and discomfort. Rinsing the mouth with cool water can also increase the risk of aspiration if the client swallows some of the water.

Choice C Reason: This is correct because oral sponge toothettes are soft and gentle on the oral mucosa and can help moisten and cleanse the mouth without causing irritation or aspiration.

Choice D Reason: This is incorrect because teaching the client that the oral mucosa must remain dry is false and can lead to further dryness, cracking, bleeding, and infection. The oral mucosa should be kept moist and clean to prevent these complications.

Choice A reason: Switching to a non-rebreather mask is not the immediate action to take. Non-rebreather masks deliver a high concentration of oxygen, typically reserved for severe hypoxia. The patient’s oxygen saturation is low, but not critically low. It’s important to first ensure the accuracy of the reading before escalating oxygen delivery methods.

Choice B reason: Removing the nasal cannula is not advisable. The patient is postoperative and may have impaired gas exchange due to anesthesia, pain, or decreased mobility. Removing the supplemental oxygen may worsen the patient’s hypoxemia and increase the risk of complications.

Choice C reason: Increasing the oxygen to 3 L/minute could be a potential action if the oxygen saturation reading is accurate and the patient’s condition does not improve. However, any changes to a patient’s oxygen therapy should be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider. It’s important to first verify the accuracy of the oxygen saturation reading.

Choice D reason: Verifying the placement of the pulse oximeter is the highest priority action. Before making changes to the oxygen flow rate, it’s important to ensure that the oxygen saturation reading is accurate. Incorrect placement or function of the pulse oximeter could lead to inaccurate readings.