The Nursing Assistant Is Preparing a Lunch Tray and Observes

Multiple Choice

The nursing assistant is preparing a lunch tray and observes the older client's mouth is dry, but the client denies thirst. What is the appropriate action for the nursing assistant to take?

A) Report the client's lack of thirst immediately to the nurse for further assessment for signs and symptoms of dehydration.
B) Choose to provide the client's favorite drinks to entice the client to drink fluids to restore fluid balance.
C) Explain the need to drink water and noncaffeinated drinks to help with delivery of nutrients and fluids to cells.
D) Take no action because it is perfectly normal for older adults to be less thirsty and for their mucous membranes to be drier.