The unconscious patient is resisting attempts by the nurse to provide oral hygiene. To provide the needed care, the nurse may
a. Insert an oral airway upside down.
b. Hold the patient's mouth open with her fingers.
c. Position the patient on his back.
d. Use undiluted hydrogen peroxide as a cleaner.
A
If the patient is unconscious or uncooperative, or is having difficulty keeping the mouth open, insert an oral airway. Insert it upside down, then turn the airway sideways and over the tongue to keep the teeth apart. Insert when the patient is relaxed. Do not use force. Never place fingers into the mouth of an unconscious or debilitated patient. The normal response of the patient is to bite down. Position the patient on his side or turn his head to allow for drainage. Placing the patient on his back could lead to aspiration. Hydrogen peroxide and sodium bicarbonate effectively remove debris but, if not diluted carefully, may cause superficial burns.
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What is the answer?
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