The nurse is providing oral hygiene care to a comatose patient. Which of the following regimens would be most effective in decreasing the patient's risk of tooth decay and plaque accumulation?
A) Irrigating the mouth using a syringe filled with a bactericidal 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 glycerin swab
Ans: C
Feedback: Application of mechanical friction is the most effective way to cleanse the patient's
mouth. If the patient is unable to brush his teeth, the nurse may brush them, taking precautions to prevent aspiration, or as a substitute, can wipe the teeth with a gauze pad to achieve mechanical friction. Bactericidal 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 glycerin swabs dry the oral mucosa and are ineffective in cleansing the patient's mouth.
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