What to Do When a Denture Plate is Cracked

While assisting a client with denture care the nurse aide observes that the upper plate is cracked. What should the nurse aide do?

• A. Clean the dentures and return them to the client's mouth
• B. Call the client's family
• C. Call the dentist and make an appointment
• D. Report the damage to the nurse in charge

Answer: (D)

When a nurse aide observes that a client's upper denture plate is cracked, reporting the damage to the nurse in charge is the appropriate action to take. This responsibility is critical because it ensures that the client's needs are addressed by a licensed professional who can assess the situation further and determine the necessary steps for repair or replacement. By notifying the nurse, the aide is prioritizing the client’s safety and comfort, as a cracked denture can cause irritation or injury to the gums or lead to difficulty in eating and speaking. The nurse can then make informed decisions about whether the dentures require immediate attention from a dentist or if further assessment is needed to ensure the client’s well-being. Other actions, such as cleaning the dentures and returning them to the client’s mouth, would not be appropriate because it ignores the potential harm a cracked denture could cause. Calling the client’s family or making an appointment with a dentist independently might not be within the aide's scope of practice and would not ensure that the client receives prompt and proper care. It’s essential for the nurse aide to follow the established protocols and communicate effectively within the healthcare team.

When you’re a State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA), every detail matters, especially when it comes to your clients’ well-being. Imagine this: you're assisting a client with their denture care routine, and then you spot something worrying—a crack in the upper denture plate. What’s the first thing that pops into your mind? If it’s anything other than the client’s comfort and safety, we need to talk about what you should really do next.

So, what's the correct move here? You might think cleaning the dentures and simply putting them back in would be a quick fix. However, that’s not the right call! In fact, the first step to take is to report the damage to the nurse in charge. Why? Because the nurse is a licensed professional who can evaluate the situation and decide on the necessary actions, be it repair or replacement.

Here’s the thing: a cracked denture plate isn’t just a minor inconvenience; it can lead to some serious issues. It could irritate the gums, cause pain during eating or speaking, and allow for further complications down the road. That’s why alerting the nurse is crucial. By prioritizing communication, you ensure that your client receives the care they deserve without delay.

Now, let’s look at the alternatives you might be tempted to try. For instance, some aides might lean towards calling the client’s family or even making a dental appointment themselves. But hold on—those actions could fall outside your scope of practice. It’s not just about following the right protocols; it’s about being part of a reliable healthcare team that collaborates to deliver the best possible care.

Many of us can relate to the feeling of urgency when we encounter something out of the ordinary. You want to act fast, right? But that’s where the power of teamwork comes in. When you report issues like cracked dentures, you’re not just being a good aide; you’re ensuring that you’re part of a system designed to keep clients safe and comfortable.

So, next time you find yourself in a similar situation, remember this: it’s more than just following a checklist. It’s about asking yourself what’s best for the client in that moment. By keeping tabs on their equipment, needs, and overall health, you’ll thrive as a nursing assistant, paving the way for better care and an efficient, effective team environment.

And that’s the heart of the nursing profession, isn’t it? It’s about caring for those who rely on you. So wear that badge of an STNA with pride, take your responsibilities seriously, and always be prepared to act decisively. Your clients are counting on you!