A nurse is caring for a client who has AIDS. The client states, "My mouth is sore when I eat." Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide?

Rationale: A. "Rinse your mouth with an alcohol-based mouthwash.": Alcohol-based mouthwashes can further irritate the mucous membranes, worsen oral discomfort, and dry the oral tissues, especially in clients with mucositis or candidiasis common in AIDS. B. "Eat foods served at hot temperatures.": Hot foods can aggravate oral sores and cause more pain or tissue damage. Cool or room-temperature foods are typically better tolerated when the mouth is sore. C. "Use ice chips to numb your mouth.": Ice chips can provide temporary relief by numbing oral tissues, reducing inflammation, and making eating more comfortable. This is a helpful, non-pharmacologic intervention for oral pain. D. "Add salt to season foods.": Salt can irritate open or inflamed oral tissues and worsen the discomfort. Bland, soft foods without strong seasonings are usually better tolerated in cases of mouth soreness.