ASSISTING THE PATIENT WITH ORAL CARE UNSATISFACTOR FAIR SATISFACTORY

Y
Definition

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. Provide privacy for patient.

5. Lower side rail and assist patient to sitting position, if

permitted, or turn patient onto side. Place towel across
patient’s chest. Raise bed to a comfortable working
position, usually elbow height of the caregiver.
Put on gloves

6. Encourage patient to brush own teeth, or assist, if

necessary.
a. Moisten toothbrush and apply toothpaste to bristles.
b. Place brush at a 45-degree angle to gum line and
brush from gum line to crown of each tooth. Brush
outer and inner surfaces. Brush back and forth across
biting surface of each tooth.
c. Brush tongue gently with toothbrush.
d. Have patient rinse vigorously with water and spit into
emesis basin. Repeat until clear. Suction may be used as
an alternative for removal of fluid and secretions from
mouth.
7. Assist patient to floss teeth, if appropriate:
a. Remove approximately 6 inches of dental floss from
container or use a plastic floss holder. Wrap the floss
around the index fingers, keeping about 1 to 1.5 inches
of floss taut between the fingers.
b. Insert floss gently between teeth, moving it back and
forth downward to the gums.
c. Move the floss up and down, first on one side of a
tooth and then on the side of the other tooth, until the
surfaces are clean, repeat in the spaces between all
teeth.
d. Instruct patient to rinse mouth well with water after
flossing.

8. Offer mouthwash if patient prefers.

9. Offer lip balm or petroleum jelly.

10. Remove equipment. Remove gloves and discard.

Raise side rail and lower bed.
Assist patient to a position of comfort.

11 Remove any other PPE, if used. Perform hand

hygiene.