ORAL CARE PROCEDURE

1. Definition

• Oral care is the cleaning of teeth, gums, tongue, and oral cavity to maintain hygiene and prevent infection.

2. Purpose

• To maintain oral hygiene

• To prevent infection and dental problems

• To promote comfort and appetite

• To remove food debris and secretions

3. Indications

• Bedridden patients

• Unconscious patients

• Patients with oral infection

• Before and after meals

• Post-operative patients

4. Contraindications

⚠️ Use caution in:

• Unconscious patients (risk of aspiration)

• Bleeding gums or oral lesions

• Post oral surgery

5. Articles / Equipment

🧰 Equipment:

• Kidney tray

• Mouth gag (for unconscious patient)

🧴 Supplies:

• Toothbrush / sponge stick

• Toothpaste

• Mouthwash

• Cotton swabs

• Towel

• Gloves

📋 Records:

• Patient record (if required)

6. Patient Preparation

• Explain procedure to patient

• Provide privacy

• Position patient:

  • Conscious: sitting or semi-Fowler’s

  • Unconscious: lateral position

7. Procedure Steps (Step-by-Step Sentences)

🔹 For Conscious Patient

1. Wash hands and wear gloves.

2. Position the patient in sitting or semi-Fowler’s position.

3. Place towel around the neck.

4. Provide toothbrush and toothpaste to the patient.

5. Instruct patient to brush teeth properly.

6. Ask the patient to rinse mouth with water or mouthwash.

7. Assist if required.

8. Wipe mouth and ensure cleanliness.

🔹 For Unconscious Patient

9. Position the patient in lateral position to prevent aspiration.

10. Place towel and kidney tray under the cheek.

11. Use mouth gag if required.

12. Clean oral cavity using sponge sticks or cotton swabs soaked in solution.

13. Clean teeth, gums, and tongue gently.

14. Remove secretions using suction if needed.

15. Do not use excess water.

16. Dry the mouth gently.

🔹 Common Steps

17. Apply lip moisturizer if needed.

18. Make the patient comfortable.

19. Dispose of waste properly.

20. Remove gloves and wash hands.

21. Document the procedure if required.

8. Post Procedure Care

• Ensure patient comfort

• Check for oral lesions or infection

• Maintain regular oral care routine

9. Complications

• Aspiration

• Bleeding gums

• Oral infection

• Injury to oral mucosa

10. Health Education

• Brush teeth twice daily

• Maintain oral hygiene

• Avoid tobacco and smoking

• Rinse mouth after meals

• Regular dental check-up

🎯 Viva Questions

Q1. What is the position for unconscious patient?👉 Lateral position

Q2. Why is oral care important?👉 To prevent infection and maintain hygiene

Q3. What is the risk in unconscious patient?👉 Aspiration