Which intervention should a practical nurse ensure the family provides for a client receiving palliative care for stage four colon cancer?

The correct choice emphasizes the importance of maintaining mucous membrane moisture for a client receiving palliative care for stage four colon cancer. In this context, clients often experience various physical challenges resulting from their illness and its treatment, including mucosal dryness due to dehydration, medication side effects, or the cancer itself.

Keeping mucous membranes moist is crucial as dryness can lead to discomfort, increased risk of infection, difficulty swallowing, and overall decreased quality of life. Families can help by encouraging adequate hydration, offering moist foods, and using lubricating agents to care for the lips and oral cavity.

While administering pain medication, assisting with personal hygiene, and maintaining a quiet environment are all valuable interventions in palliative care, keeping mucous membranes moist addresses a specific and often overlooked aspect of comfort that can significantly enhance a client’s overall well-being.