What does being part of this study mean for me?
As the HAPPEN study is a randomised trial, you will have a 50:50 chance of being involved in the intervention group. The intervention is to assure at least twice daily oral care is carried out by either encouraging you to do this or for one of the nurses to assist you. Oral care for the purposes of this study includes cleaning of the teeth/dentures, tongue, moisturising the lips, using toothbrushes suitable for the patient population, and toothpaste containing sodium bicarbonate. There is no anticipated risk to any participant and you will be fully consented if you are to be part of the intervention study group.