Policy Manual sample

MDT Home Health Care Agency, Inc. 86 ORAL HYGIENE PURPOSE: Patients will be assisted with oral hygiene, as necessary, to cleanse the oral cavity, decrease mouth odor, enhance comfort, and decrease potential for mouth infection, minimize dental decay, inflammation and deterioration. RESPONSIBLE PERSONNEL: RN, LPN, HHA EQUIPMENT : Toothpaste, toothbrush or toothettes, basin or glass, glass of water, gloves, Chux Pad or towel, mouthwash, tissues SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS: Oral hygiene is usually performed independently, however, some patients who are extremely ill and the elderly require additional assistance. Generally speaking, mouth care is indicated at least twice a day. Encourage independence in accomplishing all or part of this task. An acknowledgment of patient preferences will facilitate greater cooperation from the patient. The caregiver should be instructed to routinely assess mouth and gums for swelling, bleeding, dryness, ulcers, patches, unusual odors, or other changes. Gloves are recommended anytime contact with blood or body fluid may occur. If home care members will be exposed to saliva, gloves should be worn. PROCEDURE: Patient With Teeth: 1. Wash hands. Wear gloves if there is any possibility or direct contact with saliva. 2. Explain the procedure to the patient. Encourage the patient to do as much as possible himself. 3. Raise the head of the bed unless contraindicated. Otherwise, turn patient to the side. Place a Chux Pad or towel beneath head and chin. 4. Remove any partial plate. Set aside. Clean as per dentures. 5. Wet toothbrush. Apply toothpaste. 6. Place emesis basin under mouth. 7. Brush teeth slowly with firm gentle pressure. Brushing should include all surfaces of the teeth, as well as gums and tongue. 8. Allow patient to rinse mouth with water and spit into emesis basin. Patient With Dentures: 1. Place washcloth or folded towel in sink. 2. Remove dentures from patient’s mouth and place in denture container. 3. Place dentures over folded towel 4. Using gloves, brush dentures using appropriate dentifrice. 5. Rinse thoroughly in cold water.