CNA Certification (Written Exam)Activities of Daily LivingHard
A CNA is assisting a resident with mouth care. The resident is unconscious. Which position should the CNA place the resident in to prevent aspiration?
- ATrendelenburg position (head lower than feet).
- BFowler's position (sitting upright at 45-60 degrees).
- CSupine (lying flat on their back).
- DLateral position (lying on their side) with head turned to the side.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Lateral position (lying on their side) with head turned to the side.
For an unconscious resident, placing them in a lateral (side-lying) position with their head turned to the side allows any fluids or secretions to drain out of the mouth, significantly reducing the risk of aspiration (inhalation of fluid into the lungs).
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Trendelenburg position would increase the risk of aspiration as fluids would flow towards the airway.
- B. Fowler's position is suitable for conscious residents but still poses aspiration risk for those who cannot control secretions.
- C. Lying flat on the back significantly increases the risk of aspiration for an unconscious resident.
Mouth Care for Unconscious Resident
When providing mouth care to an unconscious resident, position them on their side with the head turned to prevent aspiration of fluids into the lungs.
- Aspiration risk is high in unconscious residents.
- Lateral position facilitates fluid drainage.
- Use minimal fluid and a suction device if available.
Memory trick: Unconscious Mouth Care: Side-Lie, Don't Let Fluids Fly!