Question

The nurse prioritizes which intervention in a client with xerostomia secondary to radiation therapy to the neck area?

1) Applying lotions and oils to affected areas
2) Wearing a hat to decrease heat loss
3) Providing oral care after meals and at bedtime
4) Monitoring vital signs every 4 hours

Answer 1

The nurse should prioritize providing oral care after meals and at bedtime for a client with xerostomia caused by radiation therapy to the neck area, as it helps maintain oral hygiene and manage dry mouth symptoms.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse prioritizes providing oral care after meals and at bedtime in a client with xerostomia secondary to radiation therapy to the neck area.

This intervention helps to alleviate dry mouth symptoms, prevent infections, and maintain oral hygiene, which can be particularly compromised due to the reduction of saliva production as a side effect of radiation.

Medications and special mouthwashes have also been formulated to reduce dry mouth and cavities, supporting the priority of oral hygiene measures in the management of xerostomia.