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12.4.2: Patients Who Are Unable to Perform Mouth Hygiene Independently, Such as an Unconscious Patient
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Complete hand hygiene and assemble needed equipment.
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Put the patient in a
side–
lying
position
for safety. Turn their head to the side.
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Place a towel or waterproof pad under their cheek and chin to prevent the patient or bed linens from getting wet.
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Place an emesis basin against the side of their mouth and cheek.
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Place a padded tongue blade on the side of their mouth to keep their mouth open. To make a padded tongue blade, place two wooden tongue blades together. Wrap gauze over the top half and tape it into place. Pull the patient’s mouth apart by placing gentle pressure on their chin and upper mouth.
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Never put your fingers inside their mouth because the patient may bite down, even if they do not mean to.
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Brush teeth gently, using a dry toothbrush or with a mouth swab. Dip the swab in solution and squeeze excess solution from the swab. Swab all surfaces of their teeth, gums, inside their cheeks, the roof of their mouth, and tongue. Use clean swabs as necessary.
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Rinse entire mouth with a clean swab. Ensure there are no pooled secretions. Suction excess secretions as directed in the Care Plan.
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Ensure the patient’s mouth, face, and neck are dry.
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Apply moisturizer to lips.
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Return the patient to a comfortable position. Lower the bed to its lowest height and raise side rails.
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Put away equipment and supplies.
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Remove your gloves. Wash and dry your hands.
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Document completion of task and record any changes in condition or behavior. Report any tooth or mouth conditions observed, such as sores, open areas, or bleeding from gums, tongue, or teeth. Report any new broken or missing teeth.