RN-ATI-Fundamentals-of-Nursing-2023-2024 Related

Review RN-ATI-Fundamentals-of-Nursing-2023-2024 related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a client who reports xerostomia following radiation therapy to the mandible. Which of the following is an appropriate action by the nurse?

  • A. Suggest rinsing his mouth with an alcohol-based mouthwash
  • B. Provide humidification of the room air
  • C. Offer the client saltine crackers between meals
  • D. Instruct the client on the use of esophageal speech
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Provide humidification of the room air. Xerostomia is dry mouth often caused by radiation therapy, which can lead to discomfort and difficulty swallowing. Humidifying the room air can help alleviate dryness, making it easier for the client to breathe and swallow. Alcohol-based mouthwash (A) can worsen dryness due to its drying effect. Saltine crackers (C) can be difficult to swallow with a dry mouth. Esophageal speech (D) is not relevant to xerostomia.