What action should a nurse take for a preschool-age child with mucosal ulceration after chemotherapy?

The most appropriate action for a nurse to take with a preschool-age child experiencing mucosal ulceration after chemotherapy is to instruct the child to use a soft sponge toothbrush when brushing her teeth. This recommendation is crucial because mucosal ulcerations can be very painful and using a soft sponge toothbrush minimizes the risk of further trauma to the already sensitive tissues in the mouth. A softer brush will help maintain oral hygiene while being gentle enough not to exacerbate pain or bleeding caused by the ulcers.

Providing hard foods is generally not advisable because hard or crunchy foods can irritate the mucosa further and cause additional discomfort. Encouraging the child to avoid eating altogether is not beneficial in the long run, as nutrition is important for healing and recovery, even if it requires modifications in texture and consistency. Suggesting the use of an alcohol-based mouthwash is also inappropriate, as alcohol can irritate the mucosal surfaces and worsen the soreness associated with ulcerations. Therefore, using a soft sponge toothbrush is the best approach to promoting oral hygiene while safeguarding the child’s comfort during this vulnerable time.