Administration should include knowledge of
- the necessity of providing care of the mouth, teeth, gums, and/or dentures at least twice daily, preferably after each meal
- types of oral hygiene products
- mouthwash
- toothpaste
- dental floss
- denture cleaning products
- how to use oral hygiene products
- Read package labels and refer to HCP orders for amounts and frequency.
- Date and initial multi-use containers when opened.
- Follow the procedures for providing oral care (e.g., brushing, flossing, denture cleaning).
- potential problems of failing to provide oral care
- gum disease
- decreased appetite and weight loss
- linked to a decreased life span.
Process/Skill Questions:
- When would you not use an alcohol-based mouthwash?
- What are two safety procedures that should be performed when cleaning dentures?