Author Question: An older adult complains of xerostomia. Which of the following interventions should the nurse ... (Read 58 times)

crazycityslicker · **on:** Jul 11, 2018

An older adult complains of xerostomia. Which of the following interventions should the nurse implement for this patient? (Select all that apply.)

a. Encourage the patient to brush and floss teeth regularly.
b. Encourage the patient to have regular dental screenings.
c. Provide antiseptic mouthwash (e.g., Lis-terine) for the patient.
d. Encourage adequate intake of water.
e. Provide saliva substitutes.

Question 2

A nurse is observing a nurse aide perform denture care for a resident in the nursing home. The nurse recommends that the nurse aide receive additional education on denture care when the nurse observes which of the following?

a. The nurse aide places a face cloth in the sink and fills the sink half full with water.
b. The nurse aide uses toothpaste to clean the dentures.
c. The nurse aide utilizes a specially designed denture brush to clean the dentures.
d. The nurse aide stores the dentures in a denture cup filled with denture cleansing solution.

adf223 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 11, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A, B, D, E
Individuals with xerostomia should have regular dental screenings and be encouraged to practice good oral hygiene. Adequate intake of water is important, as is avoidance of alcohol and caf-feine. Saliva substitutes may be helpful. Antiseptic mouthwashes usually contain alcohol, which can further dry the mouth.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Toothpaste is not used to clean dentures since it abrades denture surfaces. All of the other op-tions are correct steps in the process to cleanse dentures.