Question

The nurse is assessing a client who was recently extubated. The client has oral medications prescribed. Which clinical findings indicate the client may be able to safely take oral medications? (Select all that apply.)

a. Manages oral secretions.
b. Alert and oriented.
c. Ability to pass flatus.
d. Dentures are in place.
e. Gag reflex present.

Answer 1

An extubated client may be able to safely take oral medications if they can manage oral secretions, are alert and oriented, and have a present gag reflex. These indicators are part of the safety assessments health professionals use to prevent aspiration and ensure effective medication administration.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question asks which clinical findings suggest that a client who was recently extubated may be able to safely take oral medications. Assessing a patient's ability to take oral medications following extubation is important to prevent aspiration and ensure medication is administered effectively. Some key findings that indicate a client may be ready to safely take oral medications include:

• Manages oral secretions: Being able to handle saliva and other oral secretions without choking or coughing indicates that the client's swallow reflex is likely intact.
• Alert and oriented: An alert and oriented client can follow instructions and is more capable of coordinating swallowing.
• Gag reflex present: The presence of a gag reflex is an important sign that the client may be able to handle oral medications, as it helps prevent aspiration.

Factors such as the ability to pass flatus or whether dentures are in place are less directly related to the safe ingestion of oral medications post-extubation.