Inpatient Oral Care

Background: Oral care is proven to prevent colonization of pathogenic organisms in the oral cavity and decrease rates of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). To improve patient health outcomes, one local hospital sought to implement an oral care policy founded on evidence-based research. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine best practice for oral care in an intensive care unit. The study is an integral part of creating a comprehensive oral care policy and guide for purchasing hospital-wide oral care products. Methods: Oral care policies at local facilities with intensive care units were reviewed and compared. Clinical practice guidelines and peer-reviewed studies were also utilized. Results: Research revealed inconsistent oral care practices with regards to frequency, oral cleansing agent, and concentration of oral cleansing agent. Discussion/Recommendation: The study was limited by the lack of evidence-based oral care practices. A multivariable research study needs to be conducted to ascertain the best practices of frequency, oral cleansing agent, and concentration of oral cleansing agent for oral care. Areas of interest include patient refusal rates, ventilated versus non-ventilated patients, and acuity of care