Question

When providing oral care for the unconscious person:

A. No oral care is provided
B. Person should be lying flat, face up
C. Does not need to be done frequently
D. Frequency will help maintain healthy, moist mucous membranes

Answer 1

For unconscious patients, provide oral care frequently with the body positioned in a supine orientation with the head to the side to prevent aspiration and maintain healthy mucous membranes.

Step-by-step explanation:

When providing oral care for an unconscious person, it is crucial to position the person correctly to prevent aspiration and to ensure comfort. The correct position is not with the person lying flat, but rather with the head to one side to allow fluids to drain out of the mouth and to reduce the risk of aspiration. Positioning the person in a supine orientation with the upper body elevated is generally advised.

Regular oral care is vital for maintaining healthy, moist mucous membranes and preventing infection. The frequency of oral care should be sufficient to keep the mouth clean and the mucous membranes moist; this can vary from every few hours to several times a day, based on the individual's needs and care plan.

In summary, the correct answer is not to leave the person lying flat, face-up; rather, oral care should be frequent to maintain oral hygiene and the well-being of the patient.