Colorado CNA Practice Exam

To avoid aspiration in unconscious residents during oral care, a nursing assistant should:

1. Ensure the resident is lying flat

2. Use as much water as possible

3. Frequently turn the resident's head to the side

4. Skip oral care

The correct answer is: Frequently turn the resident's head to the side

The correct action to take in order to avoid aspiration in unconscious residents during oral care is to frequently turn the resident's head to the side. This positioning helps to ensure that any fluids or debris that may accumulate in the mouth can safely drain out and prevents them from flowing back into the throat, which could lead to aspiration. By turning the head, the nursing assistant aids in keeping the airway clear, as it minimizes the risk of anything entering the airway while oral care is performed. Using as much water as possible could increase the chances of aspiration, as the accumulation of too much fluid in the mouth poses a risk if the resident cannot effectively manage swallowing or clearing the mouth due to being unconscious. Maintaining the resident lying flat would similarly heighten the risk for aspiration, as there would be less gravity aid in preventing fluids from entering the throat. Skipping oral care entirely is not advisable, as maintaining oral hygiene is critical for preventing infections and promoting overall well-being, even in unconscious residents.