When providing oral care for an unconscious client, which position should the nurse use to prevent aspiration?

ORAL CARE FOR UNCONSCIOUS CLIENTS: ASPIRATION RISK: Unconscious clients have no protective gag reflex — fluid, secretions, or debris can enter the airway; POSITIONING: Side-lying is ideal — gravity drains secretions away from the airway; if patient cannot be turned, turn the head to the side; TECHNIQUE: Use minimal fluid (moistened swabs rather than rinse); suction available and ready to use; small, controlled applications; avoid over-suctioning (mucosal trauma); FREQUENCY: Every 2-4 hours in mechanically ventilated patients (oral care reduces VAP — ventilator-associated pneumonia); SUPPLIES: Oral swabs, dilute chlorhexidine rinse (ICU/ventilated patients per evidence), lip moisturiser, suction; EVIDENCE-BASED: Regular oral care in ICU patients reduces VAP incidence by approximately 40%; PN SCOPE: Perform routine oral care; assess oral mucosa; report signs of infection or breakdown; ensure suction equipment is functioning before providing care to unconscious patients.