Practice Question
The nurse is planning to provide mouth care for an unconscious client. Which statement is accurate in regard to implementing mouth care for this client?
Answer Choices:
Correct Answer:
Positioning the unconscious client with the head turned to the side is the key to providing safety during mouth care.
Rationale:
🟦 Turning the head to the side prevents aspiration of secretions during mouth care.
🟦 Unconscious clients lack a gag reflex, making airway protection essential.
🟦 Side positioning allows saliva and fluids to drain safely from the mouth.
🟦 This is the safest strategy to prevent aspiration pneumonia.
🟦 Proper positioning maintains airway patency throughout the procedure.
Unconscious clients need less frequent care
🟦 They need more frequent care due to lack of swallowing.
🟦 Increased oral dryness raises infection and breakdown risk.
Glycerin swabs are best
🟦 Glycerin causes drying and mucosal irritation.
🟦 Not recommended for routine oral care.
Brushing should be avoided
🟦 Brushing improves oral hygiene and prevents infection.
🟦 Safe with proper suctioning and positioning.
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This question is from HESI BSN 225-RN Fundamentals Fall-2025 which contains 59 questions.
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Question Details
- Category: RN Nursing Exam(s)
- Subcategory: HESI Exam(s)
- Domain: Hesi Fundamentals of Nursing
- Answer Choices: 4