Wisconsin Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Practice Exam

What position should an unconscious resident be in during mouth care?

1. Supine position

2. Side-lying position

3. Prone position with their head to the side

4. Sitting position

The correct answer is: Prone position with their head to the side

The appropriate position for an unconscious resident during mouth care is side-lying. This position is crucial for a few reasons. First, it helps prevent aspiration, which can occur if the resident accidentally inhales fluids or debris into their lungs. When an individual is unconscious, they lack the ability to swallow reflexively, making them more vulnerable to choking without proper positioning. Placing the resident in a side-lying position allows any excess liquid or debris to drain out of the mouth rather than pooling, further reducing the risk of aspiration. This position also provides easier access for the caregiver to perform mouth care effectively while ensuring the resident's airway remains clear. Other positions, such as supine or sitting, can increase the risk of complications since they may lead to the pooling of fluids in the throat, and prone position is generally not suitable for mouth care as it obstructs access to the mouth and poses a significant risk for aspiration. Hence, the side-lying position is the safest and most effective choice for unconscious residents during mouth care.