A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client about the use of a peak flow meter. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

The correct answer is d. Using two gloved fingers to open the client’s mouth for cleaning. This action is unsafe as it risks injury to both the AP and the client. A padded tongue blade should be used instead.

Choice A reason:

Using an oral care sponge swab moistened with cool water to clean the client’s mouth is appropriate. Oral care sponge swabs are designed to clean the mouth gently and effectively, especially for unconscious patients.

Choice B reason:

Wearing clean gloves to perform mouth care for the client is a standard precaution to prevent infection. Gloves protect both the caregiver and the patient from potential infections.

Choice C reason:

Lowering the side rail on the side of the bed where they will stand to perform mouth care is necessary to safely access the patient. It allows the AP to perform the task without straining or risking injury.

Choice D reason:

Using two gloved fingers to open the client’s mouth for cleaning is unsafe. This method can cause injury to the AP if the patient bites down reflexively. A padded tongue blade should be used to safely open the mouth.

Choice A reason: Showing the client a video demonstration of peak flow meter use is a helpful teaching strategy, but it is not the first action that the nurse should take. The nurse should first assess the client's baseline knowledge and readiness to learn before providing any information or instruction.

Choice B reason: Observing the client using the peak flow meter is a way to evaluate the client's learning and skill, but it is not the first action that the nurse should take. The nurse should first determine the client's knowledge of the use of the peak flow meter and then teach the client how to use it correctly.

Choice C reason: Emphasizing the importance of the daily use of the peak flow meter is a way to motivate the client to adhere to the treatment plan, but it is not the first action that the nurse should take. The nurse should first assess the client's knowledge of the use of the peak flow meter and then explain the benefits and rationale of using it regularly.

Choice D reason: Determining the client's knowledge of the use of the peak flow meter is the first action that the nurse should take, as it follows the principle of the nursing process. The nurse should start with assessment, then proceed with planning, implementation, and evaluation. By assessing the client's knowledge, the nurse can identify the client's learning needs, gaps, and preferences, and tailor the teaching accordingly.