An older adult with a gastrostomy tube has difficulty using the dominant hand.Which of the following should the nurse provide to prevent complications of the gastrostomy tube?
A) Use foam swabs to brush the teeth.
B) Provide oral care every 4 hours.
C) Supply a soft tooth brush and floss.
D) Position the patient at 90 degrees for tube feedings.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The nurse provides oral care every 4 hours and brushes the teeth after meals to decrease the microorganism count in the mouth of an older adult with a gastrostomy tube.Foam swabs are ineffective tools to remove plaque,regardless of the toothpaste.Because this older adult has difficulty with the dominant hand,providing oral care supplies can be a waste of time,unless the nurse assists the older adult to maintain oral health with the supplies.The nurse positions the older adult at a 30- to 45-degree angle during tube feedings to facilitate gastric emptying.

An Older Adult with a Gastrostomy Tube Has Difficulty Using