A comatose patient is receiving oral care. What oral care regimen would be most effective in decreasing the client's risk of tooth decay and plaque accumulation?
A) Irrigating the mouth using a syringe filled with a bacteriocidal mouthwash
B) Applying a water-soluble gel to the teeth and gums
C) Wiping the teeth and gums with a gauze pad
D) Gently stroking the teeth and gums with a lemon and glycerine swab
Ans: C
Feedback: Application of mechanical friction is the most effective way to cleanse the client's mouth. If the client is unable to brush his teeth, the nurse may brush them, taking precautions to prevent aspiration; or as a substitute, the nurse can achieve mechanical friction by wiping the teeth with a gauze pad. Bacteriocidal mouthwash does reduce plaque-causing bacteria; however, it is not as effective as application of mechanical friction. Water-soluble gel may be applied to lubricate dry lips, but it is not part of oral care. Lemon and glycerine swabs dry the oral mucosa and are ineffective in cleansing the client's mouth.
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