Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Prometric Practice Exam

The equipment you need for oral care of an unconscious resident includes?

1. Toothbrush and toothpaste

2. Tothette/mouth swab

3. Dental floss

4. Disposable cups

The correct answer is: Tothette/mouth swab

When providing oral care for an unconscious resident, using a tothette or mouth swab is essential. This specialized tool allows for gentle cleaning of the mouth and gums without the risk of aspirating water or toothpaste, which can occur if traditional brushing methods are utilized. Unconscious individuals may have difficulty swallowing or controlling their airway, making it crucial to use equipment designed for safety and ease of use. A tothette or mouth swab allows caregivers to moisten the mouth, remove debris, and provide comfort without the complications that can arise from more traditional oral care methods. In contrast, using a toothbrush and toothpaste may not be advisable due to the risk of choking or aspiration. Dental floss, while important for maintaining oral hygiene in conscious individuals, is not suitable for use with someone who is unconscious, as it requires a level of coordination that the resident does not have. Disposable cups might be useful for rinsing in some scenarios but are not necessary for the oral care of someone who is unable to cooperate or swallow. Therefore, the tothette or mouth swab is the safest and most effective choice in this context.