The nurse is planning oral hygiene for an older patient with a terminal illness who has an intact swallowing reflex. Which interventions would be appropriate for this patient? Select all that apply.
1. Offer ice chips frequently.
2. Provide care with soft swabs.
3. Apply petroleum jelly to the lips.
4. Brush the teeth three times a day.
5. Avoid using alcohol-based solutions.
1. Offer ice chips frequently.
2. Provide care with soft swabs.
3. Apply petroleum jelly to the lips.
5. Avoid using alcohol-based solutions.
Explanation: 1. Ice chips to relieve the feeling of dryness may be offered as long as the swallowing reflex is present.
2. Oral care with soft swabs should be provided several times a day and whenever the mouth has a foul odor or appears uncomfortable for the patient.
3. Soothing ointments or petroleum jelly may be applied to the lips to prevent painful cracking or drying.
4. The patient's oral hygiene should be provided with soft oral swabs or moistened cloths. A toothbrush would be too harsh for the patient's delicate oral tissues.
5. Alcohol-based products can be irritating and drying and their use is discouraged.
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