A nurse in a long-term care facility is collecting data from an older adult client. Which of the following findings indicates that the client might be dehydrated?

Choice a is not correct because providing an alcohol-based mouthwash is an action that the nurse should avoid when caring for a client who has stomatitis. Alcohol can dry and irritate the oral mucosa and worsen the condition.

Choice b is not correct because minimizing the use of gravies and sauces is not an action that the nurse should take to help manage stomatitis. Gravies and sauces can help moisten dry foods and make them easier to swallow for a client who has stomatitis.

Choice d is not correct because discouraging drinking with a straw is not an action that the nurse should take to help manage stomatitis. Drinking with a straw can help prevent contact between fluids and sore areas of the mouth and reduce pain for a client who has stomatitis.

Choice A: This is correct because suction equipment is essential for clearing the airway of secretions or vomitus during or after a seizure. The nurse should have suction equipment ready and accessible at the client's bedside at all times.

Choice B: This is incorrect because backboard is not needed for a client who has a seizure disorder. Backboard is used for immobilizing the spine in case of a suspected spinal injury.

Choice C: This is incorrect because padded tongue blades are not recommended for a client who has a seizure disorder. Padded tongue blades can cause injury to the teeth, gums, or tongue if inserted during a seizure. The nurse should never force anything into the mouth of a client who is having a seizure.

Choice D: This is incorrect because wrist restraints are not indicated for a client who has a seizure disorder. Wrist restraints can cause injury or skin breakdown if applied during a seizure. The nurse should never restrain or restrict the movements of a client who is having a seizure.