The nurse assists a patient with oral care.The patient is 1 day postoperative after nasal reconstruction.Which is the most important intervention for the nurse to implement to maintain integrity of the oral cavity?

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The most important intervention for this patient to maintain integrity of the oral cavity is to provide adequate hydration because the mouth is a vital component of the innate defense of the body against microorganisms.The patient cannot breathe through the nose for several days after nasal reconstruction because of edema and nasal packing,and the nose is integral to warming and humidifying inhaled air,so the mouth dries out quickly as the patient is forced to mouth breathe.If the mouth becomes dry,the mucous membranes become dry and stick to oral structures,the risk of oral lesions and erosion increases,and the ability of the mouth to destroy harmful invaders to the body decreases.An oral care plan for hydration includes humidified oxygen; frequent sips of decaffeinated beverages,water,ice chips,and hard candy; and frequent,gentle oral care.The remaining options are part of an oral care plan but are not as effective as maintaining hydration to preserve the oral mucous membranes.The other interventions help the patient with comfort and general dental health and reduce microorganisms in the mouth.

The Nurse Assists a Patient with Oral Care