The nurse is caring for a patient who has just undergone bronchoscopy. The patient states that she is thirsty and requests a drink of water. What is the nurse's best action?
A) Provide ice chips.
B) Check the patient for a gag reflex.
C) Provide a small cup of ice water with a straw.
D) Keep the patient NPO.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Numbing medication is applied to the back of the throat just before bronchoscopy. This may lead to swallowing difficulty and risk for aspiration until the gag reflex returns. The nurse should ensure that the patient has an intact gag reflex before any oral food or fluids are provided. The nurse does not need to keep the patient NPO after the gag reflex returns so it should be checked in order to allow the patient to have fluids as soon as possible to relieve thirst.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Has Just