Which supplies are listed for Mouth Care Comatose Resident?

• A. One towel, toothbrush, toothpaste, emesis basin
• B. Two Towels, Two Toothettes, Premix solution, Cup, Gloves
• C. Bath basin, soap, washcloths
• D. Gown, Bath Blanket, towels, soap

Answer: (B)

Mouth care for a comatose resident relies on gentle cleaning with soft tools, containment of fluids, and infection control. Two towels help protect linens and catch drips, while a clean set of toothettes provides safe, gentle cleaning of teeth and gums without the risk of injury from a hard brush. A premixed mouth rinse or solution and a cup give you a way to moisten and rinse the mouth, which is important since the resident can’t spit effectively. Gloves are essential to protect you and prevent cross-contamination.

Using a toothbrush with toothpaste isn’t ideal here because it can be difficult to control and may increase the risk of aspiration. The other sets focus on bathing supplies or clothing rather than the specific needs of mouth care, so they don’t address the necessary tools for this task.