What position should you place an unconscious resident in while performing oral care?

Placing an unconscious resident on their side during oral care is crucial for safety and health reasons. This position allows for the effective removal of secretions or fluids from the mouth, which can help prevent choking and aspiration. Aspiration occurs when food, liquid, or saliva is inhaled into the lungs instead of being swallowed into the stomach, which can lead to serious complications such as pneumonia.

When a resident is positioned on their side, gravity assists in draining any excess fluids away from the airway, thereby reducing the risk of aspiration. Additionally, this position provides easier access to the mouth for proper cleaning and care, which is essential in maintaining oral hygiene.

In contrast, positioning someone on their back may obstruct the airway, increasing the risk of choking, while positioning on the stomach can be dangerous and impractical, especially for performing oral care. A reclined position may offer some benefits but does not provide the same level of safety in preventing aspiration as the side-lying position does. Thus, the side position is the most appropriate and safest choice for performing oral care on an unconscious resident.