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
A. Advise the UAP to wear a standard face mask to obtain vital signs, and then get fitted for a filter mask before providing personal care:
This option might be tempting but is not appropriate because the UAP should be properly equipped with the correct protective gear before any contact with the client. Bacterial meningitis requires droplet precautions, and a standard face mask is sufficient for this type of precaution, not a particulate filter mask.
B. Send the UAP to be fitted for a particulate filter mask immediately so the UAP can provide care to this client:
This action is unnecessary because bacterial meningitis requires droplet precautions, which only necessitate a standard surgical mask, not a particulate filter mask like an N95, which is used for airborne precautions. This option indicates a misunderstanding of the type of precautions needed for bacterial meningitis.
C. Instruct the UAP that a standard face mask is sufficient to be able to provide care for the assigned client:
This is the correct course of action. Bacterial meningitis requires droplet precautions, which only require a standard face mask. The UAP can safely provide care using a standard mask.
D. Before changing assignments, determine which staff members have fitted particulate filter masks:
While it is prudent to know which staff members are fitted for particulate filter masks, this is not necessary for caring for a client with bacterial meningitis under droplet precautions. The focus should be on ensuring the UAP understands that a standard mask is sufficient.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Use positive reinforcement to affirm that the procedure is being performed correctly:
Use positive reinforcement to affirm that the procedure is being performed correctly: This is correct. Positive reinforcement is important for encouraging and motivating staff, it should be used appropriately. In this case, the UAP isperforming the procedure correctly
B. Remind the UAP to lubricate the thermometer before gently inserting it in the ear:
Lubrication is not typically necessary for tympanic thermometers. However, the primary issue in this scenario is the incorrect technique for positioning the client's auricle, so reminding about lubrication is not the most relevant intervention.
C. Demonstrate the correct technique for pulling the client's auricle down and back:
This is incorrect action to take. The UAP is using the correct technique.
D. Advise the UAP to hold the thermometer securely in place for a full three minutes:
Tympanic thermometers typically provide rapid temperature readings within a few seconds, so holding the thermometer in place for three minutes is unnecessary and may cause discomfort to the client. Additionally, the primary issue in this scenario is the incorrect technique for positioning the client's auricle, not the duration of thermometer insertion.
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