What it means
A mucous membrane: the soft, wet tissue that lines the inside of the mouth, nose, airways, digestive tract, urinary tract and vagina. Glands in it make mucusMYOO-kusThe thick, slippery fluid made by mucous membranes that moistens and protects them.Full entry , which keeps it moist and traps germs. The mouth's lining is called the oral mucosa; nurses look at it to judge hydration and to check for sores, bleeding and color.
For the nurse
Dry, sticky oral mucosa can mean dehydration. Check the mouth of clients on chemotherapy for sores (mucositis), and give gentle mouth care with a soft brush.
At a glance
| Spanish | mucosa |
|---|---|
| Also written | mucosae, mucosa's, mucosa’s |