A terminally ill patient is experiencing secretions pooling in the back of the throat. What can the nurse do to help this patient feel more comfortable?
1. Raise the head of the bed.
2. Gently massage the patient.
3. Provide frequent small sips of fluids.
4. Provide oral care.
Correct Answer: 1
The nurse should reposition the patient and raise the head of the bed if fluids accumulate in the upper airways and back of the throat. Gentle massage helps with accumulating edema of the extremities. Small sips of fluids and oral care help with the discomfort of drying oral mucous membranes.
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