Question

After a gastroscopy, how does the nurse assess the client for the return of the gag reflex?

1 Touching the pharynx with a tongue depressor
2 Giving a small amount of water using an oral syringe
3 Observing the client's swallowing ability
4 Instructing the client to breathe deeply and cough gently

Answer 1

After a gastroscopy, the nurse can assess the return of the client's gag reflex by touching the pharynx with a tongue depressor, observing the client's swallowing ability, and instructing the client to breathe deeply and cough gently.

Step-by-step explanation:

After a gastroscopy, the nurse can assess the client for the return of the gag reflex by performing the following actions:

1. Touching the pharynx with a tongue depressor: By touching the pharynx with a tongue depressor, the nurse can elicit the gag reflex. Stimulation of either side of the fauces should elicit an equivalent response.
2. Observing the client's swallowing ability: The nurse can assess the client's ability to swallow by observing their swallowing movements and ensuring the absence of any difficulty or discomfort.
3. Instructing the client to breathe deeply and cough gently: Deep breaths and gentle coughing can help activate and assess the reflexes associated with the gag reflex.