PROVIDING ORAL CARE FOR THE DEPENDENT PATIENT UNSATISFACTOR FAIR SATISFACTORY

Definition Y

Purpose

Procedure

1. Perform hand hygiene and put on PPE, if indicated.

2. Identify patient. Explain procedure to patient.

3. Assemble equipment on overbed table within reach.

4. Close the room door or curtains. Place the bed at an

appropriate and comfortable working height, usually
elbow height of the caregiver. Lower one side rail and
position patient on the side, with head tilted forward.
Place towel across patient’s chest and emesis basin in
position under chin. Put on gloves.

5. Gently open the patient’s mouth by applying pressure

to lower jaw at the front of the mouth. Remove
dentures, if present. Brush the teeth and gums carefully
with toothbrush and paste. Lightly brush the tongue.

6. Use toothette dipped in water to rinse the oral cavity.

If desired, insert the rubber tip of the irrigating syringe
into patient’s mouth and rinse gently with a small
amount of water. Position patient’s head to allow for
return of water or use suction apparatus to remove the
water from oral cavity.
7. Clean the dentures before replacing.

8. Apply lubricant to patient’s lips.

9. Remove equipment and return patient to a position

of comfort. Remove your gloves. Raise side rail and
lower bed.

10. Remove additional PPE, if used. Perform hand

hygiene.