The nurse observes a practical nurse (PN) performing oral care on an unconscious client. Which action by the PN indicates to the nurse the need for additional training?
Suctions secretions from the posterior pharynx.
Tests for a gag reflex before performing oral care.
Places the client in a supine position.
Uses an oral airway to keep the teeth apart.
The Correct Answer is C
A. Suctions secretions from the posterior pharynx:
Suctioning secretions from the posterior pharynx is an appropriate action to maintain airway patency and prevent aspiration in an unconscious client. This action indicates proper understanding of oral care principles.
B. Tests for a gag reflex before performing oral care:
Testing for a gag reflex before performing oral care is an important safety measure, especially in unconscious clients, to prevent aspiration or airway obstruction. This action indicates proper assessment and consideration of the client's protective reflexes.
C. Places the client in a supine position:
Placing an unconscious client in a supine position during oral care can increase the risk of aspiration, as it may impair the client's ability to manage oral secretions. The preferred position for oral care in unconscious clients is typically a side-lying position to facilitate drainage of oral secretions and reduce the risk of aspiration.
D. Uses an oral airway to keep the teeth apart:
Using an oral airway to keep the teeth apart is not a standard practice for oral care in unconscious clients and may not be necessary. Proper positioning of the client's head and jaw manipulation can often provide adequate access for oral care without the need for an oral airway.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
In this situation, the best approach for the nurse to use when questioning the client about sexual activity is:
A. Ask questions in a vague, nonspecific format.
This approach may lead to confusion or misunderstanding on the part of the client and may not elicit the necessary information about sexual activity. It's important for the questions to be clear and specific to ensure accurate assessment and appropriate care.
B. Get the most difficult questions over with first.
Starting with the most difficult or sensitive questions may put the client on the defensive or make them feel uncomfortable. It's generally more effective to build rapport and trust with the client before broaching sensitive topics.
C. Begin with questions that are less sensitive in nature.
This approach allows the nurse to establish rapport and build trust with the client before addressing more sensitive topics such as sexual activity. Starting with less sensitive questions can help the client feel more comfortable and open up about their concerns.
D. Share personal values to put the client at ease.
Sharing personal values may not be appropriate or helpful in this context, as it could potentially influence the client's responses and compromise the objectivity of the assessment. The focus should be on creating a safe and supportive environment for the client to discuss their health concerns without feeling judged.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Elevate the head of the bed to a 45-degree angle:
Elevating the head of the bed can help improve airway patency and reduce the risk of airway obstruction in clients with OSA. While this intervention is important, applying the positive airway pressure device (CPAP or BiPAP) takes precedence due to its direct impact on maintaining airway patency and preventing respiratory compromise.
B. Lift and lock the side rails in place:
Ensuring the safety of the client by lifting and locking the side rails is important, but it does not directly address the client's OSA or the potential respiratory depression associated with opioid analgesic administration.
C. Apply the client's positive airway pressure device:
This is the most important intervention in this scenario. Clients with severe obstructive sleep apnea rely on positive airway pressure devices, such as continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) or bilevel positive airway pressure (BiPAP), to maintain airway patency and prevent episodes of apnea during sleep. Applying the device before leaving the client alone ensures continuous support for effective breathing.
D. Remove dentures or other oral appliance:
While removing dentures or other oral appliances may be necessary for client comfort and safety, it is not directly related to managing OSA or preventing respiratory compromise associated with opioid analgesic administration.
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