An adult client presents to a clinic with reports of a significant sore throat that feels like “razor blades when swallowing.” The client’s throat is reddened with white patches. A rapid strep test is negative. A nurse’s discharge teaching includes instructing the client to gargle with saltwater. The nurse explains that the purpose of gargling with saltwater is that:
ExplanationOsmosis results in movement of fluid from an area of lower solute concentration to higher solute concentration toward equalization. The fluid moves from the inflamed tissue and is mobilized to reduce inflam- mation. Water alone would be considered a cleansing agent, but this is not the purpose for this client. The pain is relieved because of decreased inflammation.