A nurse is caring for a client who has stomatitis following radiation therapy. Which of the following is an appropriate intervention for the nurse to take?
A.
Serve foods without sauces or gravies.
B.
Instruct the client to drink liquids without a straw.
C.
Offer mouth rinses with normal saline and water.
D.
Serve foods while still at a hot temperature.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is C. Offer mouth rinses with normal saline and water.
Explanation:
Stomatitis, or inflammation of the mucous membranes in the mouth, is a common complication following radiation therapy, particularly when the treatment targets areas in or around the head and neck. This condition can cause pain, dryness, and discomfort, making eating and oral hygiene challenging for the patient.
Offering mouth rinses with normal saline and water (Option C) is an appropriate intervention for several reasons:
- Soothing Effect: Normal saline (a mixture of salt and water) can provide a soothing effect on the inflamed mucosa. Rinsing with saline helps to cleanse the oral cavity and reduce discomfort. This solution is gentle and helps to maintain oral hygiene without irritating the mucous membranes further.
- Promotes Healing: Regular rinsing with saline can help keep the mouth clean, which may promote healing and prevent secondary infections in the mouth, such as oral candidiasis (thrush), which can occur in patients with stomatitis.
- Non-Irritating: Saline is less likely to cause additional irritation compared to mouthwashes that contain alcohol, strong antiseptics, or other harsh chemicals. It helps to avoid exacerbating the condition, which is crucial in managing symptoms effectively.
Other options provided in the question have varying implications for managing stomatitis:
- A. Serve foods without sauces or gravies: While this may be beneficial because sauces and gravies can be acidic or spicy, which might exacerbate irritation, it does not address the immediate need for soothing and cleansing the oral cavity.
- B. Instruct the client to drink liquids without a straw: Drinking without a straw is recommended because using a straw can cause more irritation by creating suction. However, this does not address the oral hygiene aspect and the need for rinsing the mouth to manage stomatitis effectively.
- D. Serve foods while still at a hot temperature: Hot foods can further irritate the mucous membranes and exacerbate pain associated with stomatitis. It is generally advised to serve foods at a moderate temperature to avoid additional discomfort.
In summary, offering mouth rinses with normal saline and water is a direct and effective way to manage the discomfort and maintain oral hygiene for a client suffering from stomatitis following radiation therapy.