Basic Patient Care · NCLEX Exam

A patient is scheduled for NPO after midnight and is feeling thirsty. What action supports basic patient care?

  1. Offer ice chips if permitted, give lip balm and mouth swabs, explain NPO
  2. Permit small amounts of clear fluids since the surgery is not until morning
  3. Tell the patient firmly that nothing can be done and they must simply wait
  4. Offer sweetened drinks because the sugar will help maintain the patient's energy
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Correct answer: Offer ice chips if permitted, give lip balm and mouth swabs, explain NPO

NPO status requires compensatory comfort measures, explanation to support patient’s comfort and cooperation.

Difficulty: Medium Question 19 of 20

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