NCLEX-PN® ExaminationBasic Care and ComfortEasy
An LPN is caring for a client who is NPO and scheduled for surgery. The client reports a dry mouth and expresses discomfort. Which intervention is appropriate for the LPN to provide?
- AProvide frequent oral care with a moist sponge or swab.
- BAllow the client to rinse their mouth and swallow the water.
- CAdminister a sip of water with prescribed medications.
- DOffer a small amount of ice chips every hour.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Provide frequent oral care with a moist sponge or swab.
For NPO clients, frequent oral care with a moist sponge or swab is appropriate to relieve dry mouth and discomfort without violating the NPO status, as it does not involve ingestion of fluids.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Swallowing water, even after rinsing, violates NPO status.
- C. Administering a sip of water with medications violates NPO status and should only be done if specifically ordered and considered safe by the provider.
- D. Ice chips melt into water and are considered oral intake, violating NPO status.
NPO Oral Hygiene
Maintaining oral comfort and hygiene for clients who are NPO (nil per os) without allowing any oral intake of fluids or food.
- Use moist swabs or sponges.
- Do not allow swallowing of water.
- Relieves dry mouth and discomfort.
Memory trick: For NPO, moist swabs are the key, keeping mouths fresh, without breaking the 'no liquids' decree.