Personal Hygiene & Grooming Flashcards

A client has dentures. When should the PCA remove and clean them?

Answer: At least once daily, usually at bedtime

Dentures should be removed and cleaned at least once daily, typically at bedtime, to prevent bacterial buildup and maintain oral health.

When assisting a client with nail care, which action requires a nurse's authorization before the PCA proceeds?

Answer: Trimming nails on a client with diabetes

Clients with diabetes have poor circulation and healing, so nail trimming must be authorized and sometimes performed by a nurse to avoid injury or infection.

A client refuses to bathe for the third day in a row. What is the BEST first response by the PCA?

Answer: Document refusal and notify the supervisor

Respecting client autonomy while documenting and reporting refusals ensures the care team can address underlying causes and keep the client safe.

Which water temperature is generally recommended when drawing a bath for an elderly client?

Answer: 100–105°F for comfort and safety

Water between 100–105°F is warm enough for comfort while reducing the risk of burns, which are a concern for elderly clients with reduced skin sensitivity.

When shampooing a bedridden client's hair, the PCA should position the client:

Answer: Flat on their back with a waterproof pad under the head

Lying flat with a waterproof pad and shampoo basin under the head allows safe and effective hair washing without soaking the bed.

A male client needs perineal care. Which direction should the PCA clean?

Answer: From the urethral opening outward in a circular motion

Cleaning from the urethral opening outward prevents introducing bacteria from surrounding areas into the urethra, reducing infection risk.

What is the purpose of applying lotion after bathing a client?

Answer: To prevent dry skin and maintain skin integrity

Lotion seals in moisture after bathing, preventing dry, cracked skin that can become an entry point for infection.