Kaplan Foundation B Practice Test

Concerning unconscious oral care, what positioning and technique are recommended?

Position patient on the back and avoid suction Keep patient flat and avoid suction Position patient on the side and use suction as needed Turn patient to the side and apply suction continuously

Correct Answer:

Position patient on the side and use suction as needed

Explanation:

Unconscious patients can’t protect their airway, so oral care must promote drainage away from the airway and be able to clear secretions. Positioning the patient on their side allows saliva and secretions to drain rather than pool in the throat, reducing aspiration risk. Use suction as needed to remove secretions and debris during the care process; this helps keep the mouth clean without causing trauma from continuous suction. Leaving the patient flat and avoiding suction increases the chance that secretions will collect and enter the airway, which is why that approach is not recommended.

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