Providing Oral Care for an Unconscious Patient

Providing Oral Care for an Unconscious Patient

Equipment
■ Toothbrush with soft bristles or sponge oral swabs.
■ Toothpaste.
■ Denture cup, if patient has dentures.
■ 4 in. 4 in. gauze pad to remove dentures if present.
■ Tonsil-tip suction connected to suction source.
■ Tongue blade (padded) or bite-block.
■ Towel.
■ Waterproof linen protector.
■ Emesis basin.
■ Water-soluble lip moisturizer.
■ Procedure gloves and goggles.

Assessment
■ Assess the patient’s general oral health, including the condition of the teeth.
■ Observe oral mucosa and gums for hydration, inflammation, bleeding, or infection.
■ Determine whether the patient has dentures or partial plates. Assess the fit of dentures and the condition of the gums under the dentures.
■ Assess the patient’s gag reflex. Post-Procedure Reassessment
■ Inspect the teeth, gums, and mucous membranes for cleanliness.
■ Observe the patient’s overall responses to the procedure (e.g., gagging, coughing, VS, skin color).

Key Points
■ Lower the head of the bed unless contraindicated.
■ Position the patient side-lying with head turned to the side.
■ Place a waterproof pad and towel under the patient’s cheek and chin.
■ Use a padded tongue blade or bite-block as needed to keep the mouth open.
■ Place an emesis basin under the patient’s cheek.
■ Be Safe! For an unconscious patient, remove partial plates to prevent aspiration.
■ Suction secretions as needed.

Documentation
■ Document that oral care was given, any abnormal findings, and nursing interventions.
■ Typically, oral care is documented on a checklist or flowsheet.