An adult client is admitted with AIDS and oral candidiasis manifested by several painful mouth ulcers. The nurse delegates oral care to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) and discusses how to assist the client. Which instruction should the nurse provide the UAP?

Choice A reason: A soft-bristled toothbrush is the safest and most effective tool for oral care in clients with oral candidiasis and painful ulcers. It minimizes trauma to the mucosa while still removing debris and maintaining oral hygiene. This intervention can be safely delegated to the UAP with proper instruction, ensuring comfort and reducing risk of worsening lesions. Choice B reason: Wearing sterile gloves is unnecessary for routine oral care. Clean gloves are sufficient, as oral candidiasis is not managed with sterile technique. This option reflects misunderstanding of infection control practices. Choice C reason: Offering mouthwash may irritate the mucosa, especially if alcohol-based, and can worsen pain. Mouth rinses should be prescribed specifically by the healthcare provider, not delegated as routine care. Choice D reason: Oral care can be delegated to the UAP if proper instructions are given. Leaving oral care solely to the nurse is unnecessary and does not promote effective delegation.