On the client’s admission to the hospital, the nurse notes that the cl

On the client’s admission to the hospital, the nurse notes that the client has halitosis, and when assessing the client, the nurse notes that the client has poor oral hygiene with several discolored teeth.

The client shares he does not regularly brush or floss his teeth. The best reply from the nurse is:
1. “You should brush and floss regularly.”
2. “Do you know that poor dental hygiene can lead to diseases beyond dental dis-ease?”
3. “I’ll get you a toothbrush and toothpaste that you can take home with you once you leave the hospital.”
4. “Let me show you how to properly brush your teeth.”

ANSWER

ANS: 2
Answer 2 provides the client with information regarding why it is important to him to brush and floss regularly. Answer 1 is a true statement, but the client probably knows that he “should” brush and floss regularly; the nurse can go from there and explain why he should. Although An-swer 3 gives the client the equipment he needs, it does not provide him with any motivation to follow through. It is good for the nurse to demonstrate the skill of brushing and flossing, but that may not increase compliance by the client.