In terminally ill and dying patients, who are semi-conscious or unconscious, oral care is often based on historical anecdote rather than robust research evidence. This article will make recommendations for clinical practice to support nurses or healthcare assistants when carrying out oral care at end of life. It will consider the evidence for the effectiveness, appropriateness and patient acceptability of oral-cleansing substances, toothbrushes and foam swabs, petroleum jelly and water based gels for dry lips, topical saliva stimulants and saliva substitutes, as well as topical treatments for stomatitis.
Martin, S. 2014. Oral hygiene in dying patients with diminished consciousness. End of Life Care Journal. 4 (2) p 1 - 8
To request a copy, click here, fill in form and return to library.