Podcast
Questions and Answers
When preparing to provide mouth care to a patient who is in a coma, the nurse first ensures patient safety by doing what? (Select all that apply)
When preparing to provide mouth care to a patient who is in a coma, the nurse first ensures patient safety by doing what? (Select all that apply)
- Connecting the suction equipment
- Inspecting the patient's oral cavity
- Placing the bed in a flat position
- Assessing the patient's gag reflex (correct)
What is the primary reason an unconscious patient is placed in the side-lying position when mouth care is provided? (Select all that apply)
What is the primary reason an unconscious patient is placed in the side-lying position when mouth care is provided? (Select all that apply)
- To reduce plaque buildup in the mouth
- To reduce the risk of aspiration (correct)
- To make the oral cavity easily accessible
- To prevent possible musculoskeletal injury
In which direction is the airway initially inserted into the patient's mouth?
In which direction is the airway initially inserted into the patient's mouth?
- With the curve angled toward the patient's right cheek
- Right side up, or with the curve facing down
- With the curve angled toward the patient's left cheek
- Upside down, or with the curve facing up (correct)
Why is the toothbrush held so that its bristles are at a 45-degree angle to the gum line when brushing the teeth of an unconscious patient?
Why is the toothbrush held so that its bristles are at a 45-degree angle to the gum line when brushing the teeth of an unconscious patient?
What must the nurse avoid when brushing the tongue of an unconscious patient?
What must the nurse avoid when brushing the tongue of an unconscious patient?
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Study Notes
Mouth Care for Unconscious Patients
- Prioritize patient safety by assessing the gag reflex before any oral care.
- Assessing the gag reflex helps determine the ability to swallow and reduces choking risk.
- Inspect the oral cavity after evaluating the gag reflex for cleanliness and condition.
Positioning for Mouth Care
- Place the unconscious patient in a side-lying position to minimize aspiration risk.
- This position prevents pooling of secretions at the back of the oral cavity during mouth care.
- Accessibility, musculoskeletal injury prevention, and plaque reduction are not the primary reasons for this positioning.
Inserting an Oral Airway
- The oral airway should be initially inserted upside down (curve facing up) before being turned to rest over the tongue.
- This method keeps the patient’s teeth apart and facilitates easier access for oral care.
- Incorrect insertion, such as right side up or angled towards the cheek, may cause issues.
Toothbrush Angle and Technique
- Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle to the gum line for effective cleaning.
- This angle allows bristles to sweep away plaque beneath the gum line, promoting oral hygiene.
- Proper gripping and accessing all surfaces are secondary to the effectiveness of cleaning beneath the gum line.
Precautions While Brushing the Tongue
- Avoid stimulating the gag reflex when brushing the tongue of an unconscious patient.
- Gagging can lead to aspiration of secretions, posing a health risk.
- Dislodging bacteria and moistening the oral mucosa are essential objectives when brushing the tongue.
- Suction may be utilized to remove secretions during the brushing process.
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