return to haematology guidance

ORAL ASSESSMENT  

All patients admitted to your ward will have an individual baseline oral assessment.

The aims of regular oral assessment are the early detection and prevention of oral problems.

Where appropriate, patients should be encouraged and educated to perform their own oral hygiene care.

All findings should be documented.

Patients who are found to be at risk of developing oral problems should have an Eiler’s oral assessment performed.

Oral assessments should be visual using a pen torch and tongue depressor and palpatory using a gloved finger.  The assessment tool should be used regularly to assist in the planning and frequency of oral care.

Certain groups of patients are more at risk of developing oral problems and assessments are to be used as a guide.  Clinical judgement should be used in order to provide individualised patient care.

Individuals thought to be more “at risk” of developing oral complications include:

The elderly
Unconscious patients
Diabetics
Immunosuppressed patients
Patients who have received cytotoxic drugs
Dehydrated or fluid restricted patients
Patients receiving palliative care
Open mouth breathers

Patients receiving continuous oxygen therapy