A 49-year-old male patient is in a coma and is supported by mechanical ventilation. Regular oral care is provided by the nurse to this unconscious patient because:

The mouth is a good site for bacterial growth and may lead to pulmonary infections

Explanation

•Unconscious patients on mechanical ventilators are at risk for pneumonia. The mouth is a fertile ground for bacterial growth.

•Oral care does not reduce the risk of aspiration.

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