A nurse is caring for a client who has phantom limb pain. The nurse should identify the client is experiencing which type of pain?

A. While advanced technology can improve patient care, implementing it without proper training can lead to errors and increased risks. Staff must be adequately trained to use new technologies effectively to ensure safety. Therefore, this option is not an essential component of patient safety.
B. Increasing nurse-to-patient ratios can enhance patient safety by allowing nurses to provide more individualized care and attention. However, this is often dependent on organizational resources and staffing policies. While beneficial, it's not an essential component on its own; it must be coupled with other safety practices.
C. Proper adherence to infection control protocols helps prevent healthcare-associated infections, which can lead to serious complications and increased mortality. Ensuring that all staff follow these protocols consistently is essential for maintaining a safe healthcare environment.
D. While patient satisfaction is important, prioritizing it above all else can lead to compromises in safety and quality of care. Patient safety should always be the top priority, as it is fundamental to effective healthcare. Balancing patient satisfaction with safety is necessary, but it should not overshadow the imperative of safe practices.

A. This action is not appropriate as it could stimulate the gag reflex and lead to choking or aspiration. It does not contribute to effective oral care. Instead, gentle techniques using appropriate tools should be used to clean the mouth.
B. Holding the toothbrush at a 90° angle can be effective for brushing teeth as it allows for better access to the surfaces of the teeth. However, for an unconscious patient, this angle might not be practical or safe depending on the circumstances.
C. Vigorous brushing is not recommended, especially for an unconscious client. It could cause damage to the gums, lead to discomfort, or risk aspiration of fluids. Gentle brushing is advised to clean the teeth and gums without causing injury.
D. Turning the client to the side helps prevent aspiration of saliva or any fluids that may be in the mouth. It also provides better access for oral care and minimizes the risk of choking. This position is often recommended for unconscious patients to maintain their safety during oral care.