Abstract
Objectives: Oropharyngeal colonisation has been identified as a factor contributing to ventilator associated pneumonia (VAP) in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). We sought to develop a clinical practice guideline for providing oral hygiene in the critically ill. Research methodology: Following a systematic literature review a prospectively derived consensus development conference was convened and sponsored by a clinical governance unit. Results: The consensus development conference generated 12 recommendations for tools and solutions; frequency and duration of cleaning; oral assessment tools and oral hygiene protocols. These recommendations underwent a validation process. Conclusions: In light of sparse high level evidence to inform guidelines, further research is needed inform clinical practice. Oral hygiene is a critical element of nursing care and a standardised approach has the potential to improve clinical outcomes.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 180-185 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Intensive and Critical Care Nursing |
Volume | 27 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2011 |
Keywords
- care and hygiene
- critically ill
- intensive care units
- mouth