Why is oral care important in hospital?
Oral care is a fundamental aspect of nursing practice, particularly in hospital settings, where patients may be at increased risk for infections and complications due to compromised health. Effective oral hygiene is critical not only for maintaining the overall health and well-being of patients but also for preventing the development of life-threatening infections, such as hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP).
Patients in hospitals acquire new organisms during their stay and evidence tells us that some organisms, particularly E. coli, significantly increases the risk of pneumonia. Proper oral care can significantly reduce the bacterial load in the mouth, thereby decreasing the risk of bacterial translocation into the lungs and bloodstream. Additionally, maintaining oral health is integral to your patients’ comfort, promotes their dignity, and improves quality of life during their stay. By incorporating regular and thorough oral care into the nursing care plan, you can mitigate infection risks, accelerate recovery processes, and contribute to the holistic care and recovery of your patients.
Reference: Ewan V, Newton JL, Rushton S, Walls AW. Oral hygiene of hospitalised older patients with lower limb fracture. Age Ageing 2016;45(6):887-90. https://doi.org/10.1093/ageing/afw147.
Podcast link to a discussion on pneumonia and oral care with Elderly Care Consultant Physician Dr Victoria Ewan here