How should you perform oral care for an unconscious resident to prevent aspiration?

• A. Turn the resident to the side; keep the airway clear; use moistened swabs or a soft brush; avoid placing anything deep in the throat; suction if trained; monitor for coughing.
• B. Keep the resident on their back; use a dry cotton swab; push toward the throat.
• C. Place a tongue depressor to keep the mouth open; use a hard brush.
• D. Do not perform oral care to avoid aspiration.

Answer: (A)

Protecting the airway is essential when caring for an unconscious resident, since the swallow reflex is impaired and saliva or secretions can be aspirated into the lungs. Position the resident on their side with the head turned slightly to help fluids drain away from the airway. Use moistened swabs or a soft brush to gently clean the mouth, keeping everything moist and avoiding deep insertion toward the throat, which could trigger gagging or push material into the airway. If you’re trained and allowed by policy, suctioning can be used to remove secretions, but only within your training and facility procedures. Throughout, watch for coughing or changes in breathing, as these can indicate aspiration or airway irritation.