Wisconsin Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What does the term 'aspiration' refer to during mouth care?

1. Choking on food

2. Inhalation of foreign material into the lungs

3. Loss of ability to swallow

4. Spitting out material

The correct answer is: Inhalation of foreign material into the lungs

The term 'aspiration' in the context of mouth care specifically refers to the inhalation of foreign material into the lungs. This can occur when fluids, food particles, or other substances are mistakenly breathed in rather than being swallowed properly. It is particularly important for nursing assistants to be aware of this risk during mouth care, as aspiration can lead to serious complications such as aspiration pneumonia, which is an infection that results when inhaled materials cause inflammation in the lungs. Proper techniques during mouth care, such as positioning the patient correctly and ensuring that they are alert, can help minimize the risk of aspiration. The other options describe related but distinct concepts that do not accurately capture the medical definition of aspiration. For example, choking on food refers to an obstructed airway, while loss of the ability to swallow, known as dysphagia, is a different disorder. Spitting out material does not relate to the inhalation of substances into the lungs, which is the crux of what aspiration entails. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for effective patient care.