In a long-term care facility, a nurse is having a discussion with the nurse aides about ways to deal with dementia clients who are uncooperative with mouth care. Appropriate methods to use include which of the following?

A. Speaking to the client sternly and instructing the client to open their mouth and cooperate immediately: A stern approach often increases anxiety and resistance in dementia patients. Such communication can escalate uncooperative behavior rather than promote cooperation. B. Quickly performing oral hygiene without explanation since the client is uncooperative: Rushing through oral care without engaging the client disregards their dignity and may increase agitation. This method can also compromise safety, as the client may resist. C. Involving the client in the process of oral hygiene, such as using the hand-over-hand technique to brush the client’s teeth: This approach engages the client, promotes cooperation, and respects autonomy. The hand-over-hand technique allows the caregiver to guide movements while giving the client a sense of participation and control. D. Having another nurse aide assist in holding the client’s mouth open with a tongue depressor: Forcing the mouth open with a tongue depressor can cause injury and distress. It is considered unsafe, undignified, and should not be used as a strategy for routine oral care in dementia patients