Inpatient mouth care in Brent
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Healthwatch Brent conducted a review into hospitalised patients’ mouth care across wards in London North West University Trust. They spoke to 66 patients across 8 wards in three hospital sites between July and August 2019 to find out more about their mouth care routine since being in hospital using a survey.
The findings of the survey were generally positive, and staff were highly praised across the wards. However, there are some areas for improvement. While most patients’ mouth care was not disrupted by their hospital stay and maintained cleaning their teeth and dentures twice a day, there were some patients who did not and found providing mouth care in hospital challenging. There is evidence of staff supporting some patients with their mouth care, which is encouraging. However, not all patients who may benefit from support are receiving it.
The recommendations include ensure there is consistent support for all patients; that toothbrushes and toothpaste is offered; provide denture pots when patients don't have their own; and praise staff for the positive feedback.
The report was presented to the NHS Trust but due to COVID-19 related priorities, they were unable to provide a response.