A nurse in a long-term care facility is taking care of a patient who is unresponsive. What action should the nurse take when performing oral hygiene for the patient?
Turn the patient on their side before starting oral care.
Apply petroleum jelly to the patient’s lips after oral care.
Use the thumb and index finger to keep the patient’s mouth open.
Use a stiff toothbrush to clean the patient’s teeth.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Turning the patient on their side before starting oral care is a recommended practice when caring for an unresponsive patient. This position helps prevent aspiration, which can occur if the patient cannot swallow properly.
Choice B rationale
Applying petroleum jelly to the patient’s lips after oral care can help prevent dryness and cracking. However, it’s not the primary action the nurse should take when performing oral hygiene for an unresponsive patient.
Choice C rationale
Using the thumb and index finger to keep the patient’s mouth open is not recommended. It can cause discomfort and potential injury to the patient.
Choice D rationale
Using a stiff toothbrush to clean the patient’s teeth is not recommended. A soft toothbrush is usually used to clean the teeth of an unresponsive patient to prevent damage to the gums.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Tachycardia is not a common adverse effect of oxygen therapy. It is more likely to be associated with conditions such as fever, anemia, or hypoxia.
Choice B rationale
Poor skin turgor is a sign of dehydration, not a typical adverse effect of oxygen therapy. Oxygen therapy does not directly affect the body’s hydration status.
Choice C rationale
Excessive pulmonary secretions are not a direct adverse effect of oxygen therapy. Conditions such as pneumonia or bronchitis often cause increased secretions.
Choice D rationale
Cracks in the oral mucous membranes can occur as a result of oxygen therapy. Oxygen can dry out the mucous membranes, leading to discomfort and potential cracking.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Turning the torso at the waist when reaching for objects can actually increase the risk of back injury. It’s important to keep the back straight and bend at the knees when lifting or reaching for objects.
Choice B rationale
Using ice packs intermittently for 48 hours is a common recommendation for acute lower back pain. Ice can help reduce inflammation and numb the area, providing relief. It’s important to use the ice packs intermittently, not continuously, to avoid frostbite.
Choice C rationale
Using 10 lb arm weights to start strengthening the back muscles is not recommended for someone with acute lower back pain. Heavy lifting can exacerbate the pain and potentially cause further injury. It’s better to start with gentle, low-impact exercises and gradually increase intensity as the back heals.
Choice D rationale
Staying in bed except for toileting during the first 24 hours is not typically recommended for acute lower back pain. While rest is important, prolonged bed rest can actually lead to muscle stiffness and increased pain. It’s generally recommended to stay as active as possible without exacerbating the pain.
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