A client who has been diagnosed with a bacterial stomatitis affecting his tongue and buccal areas has been reporting oral pain of 6 out of 10

Question

The nurse educates the client regarding the appropriate use of a 2% viscous lidocaine topical medication by encouraging the client to: 1. Use the medication every 3 hours as needed for oral pain control.
2. Swallow the medication after swishing it thoroughly in his mouth.
3. Refrain from eating or drinking for ½ hour after using the medication.
4. Rinse his mouth with an alcohol-based mouthwash prior to using the medication.

Answer 1

Use the medication every 3 hours as needed for oral pain control.

Rationale: The nurse should inform the patient that the lidocaine may be used every 3 hours as needed. The nurse should ensure that the patient rinses his mouth with the viscous lidocaine, then spits it out, because swallowing the solution may impair the ability to swallow. Using lidocaine just prior to meals may help improve oral intake. Mouthwash containing alcohol should be avoided because it may increase the irritation already present in the mouth.