Brittany who is undergoing chemotherapy for her throat cancer is experiencing stomatitis. To promote oral hygiene and comfort, the nurse-in-charge should:
1. Provide frequent mouthwash with normal saline.
A. Provide frequent mouthwash with normal saline.
B. Apply viscous Lidocaine to oral ulcers as needed.
C. Use lemon glycerine swabs every 2 hours.
D. Rinse mouth with Hydrogen Peroxide.
Correct Answer: B. Apply viscous Lidocaine to oral ulcers as needed.
Stomatitis can cause pain and this can be relieved by applying topical anesthetics such as lidocaine before mouth care.
Option A: Before providing oral care, ensure that the patient is comfortable with the procedure first.
Option C: Use saline solution mixed with equal parts of water or hydrogen peroxide or oral care.
Option D: When the patient is already comfortable, the nurse can proceed with providing the patient with oral rinses of saline solution mixed with equal parts of water or hydrogen peroxide mixed water in 1:3 concentrations to promote oral hygiene. Every 2-4 hours.