What is the first action performed when starting Mouth Care for a resident?

What is the first action performed when starting Mouth Care for a resident?

• A. Knocks, Introduces, Washes Hands, Explains Procedure, Pull Curtain
• B. Gather Supplies, Prepare Area, Drape Towel, Put on Gloves
• C. Explain Procedure, Wash Hands, Pull Curtain
• D. Knocks, Introduces, Prepare Area, Place Emesis Basin

Answer: (A)

When starting Mouth Care, the priority is to greet the resident and establish consent and privacy. Knocking and introducing yourself sets a respectful tone, lets the resident know who will care for them, and invites cooperation. After you’ve entered, washing your hands is the next essential step to prevent the spread of germs before touching the resident or anything near their mouth. Explaining the procedure helps the resident understand what will happen and feel at ease, and pulling the curtain to provide privacy supports the resident’s dignity during care. Other options skip that initial greeting and consent, or place privacy and infection control steps later in the sequence, which can undermine comfort and safety at the start of care.

When starting Mouth Care, the priority is to greet the resident and establish consent and privacy. Knocking and introducing yourself sets a respectful tone, lets the resident know who will care for them, and invites cooperation. After you’ve entered, washing your hands is the next essential step to prevent the spread of germs before touching the resident or anything near their mouth. Explaining the procedure helps the resident understand what will happen and feel at ease, and pulling the curtain to provide privacy supports the resident’s dignity during care. Other options skip that initial greeting and consent, or place privacy and infection control steps later in the sequence, which can undermine comfort and safety at the start of care.