HESI Fundamental Practice Exam Related

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When providing mouth care for an unconscious client, what action should the nurse take?

  • A. Turn the client's head to the side.
  • B. Place two fingers in the client's mouth to open it.
  • C. Brush the client's teeth once per day.
  • D. Inject mouth rinse into the center of the client's mouth.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When providing mouth care for an unconscious client, the nurse should turn the client's head to the side. This action helps prevent aspiration by allowing any fluids to drain out of the mouth, reducing the risk of choking or aspiration pneumonia. Placing fingers into the client's mouth can be dangerous and may cause injury. Brushing the client's teeth only once a day may not be sufficient for proper oral hygiene care. Injecting mouth rinse into the center of the mouth is not recommended and can potentially lead to aspiration. Therefore, the correct action for the nurse to take is to turn the client's head to the side.