The nurse is assessing the oral mucosa of a pregnant female and notes enlargement of the gums. The client states that regular oral hygiene is performed and that she does not understand why this has occurred
Which of the following is the nurse's best response? 1. "You may have oral cancer.".
2. "You are experiencing a normal change during pregnancy.".
3. "You may have leukoplakia.".
4. "You need to decrease the frequency of your oral hygiene.".
2
Rationale 1: Early signs of oral cancer are manifested by ulcers in the lower lip and under the tongue that do not heal normally.
Rationale 2: Gingival hyperplasia (enlargement of the gums) is a normal physiologic change associated with pregnancy. It is also seen in clients with leukemia and prolonged use of Dilantin.
Rationale 3: Leukoplakia is a whitish thickening of the mucous membrane in the mouth or tongue. It cannot be scraped off. It is most often associated with heavy smoking or drinking, and it can be a precancerous condition.
Rationale 4: Advanced gingivitis and poor dental hygiene are manifested by swollen red gums that will bleed when brushed, and will show separation of the gum from the tooth.
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Fill in the blank(s) with the appropriate word(s).