We know that patients who are nil by mouth are at a higher risk of poor oral hygiene. I’ve seen two cases in the last week which have shocked me (and I’ve seen a lot of people’s mouths!). This was removed from a pts base of tongue extending into his oropharnx today. 1/3

Perceived barriers continue to be:
Ability to use mouth care equipment
Time to support pts who need assistance
Training to manage pts with challenging behaviours reducing efficiency of mouth care.
Fears surrounding giving mouth care whilst pts are nil by mouth. 2/3

Moral of the story, #mouthcarematters and it is everyone’s responsibility to help ensure patients who are unwell can access good mouth care. #dysphagia #oralhygiene #slpeeps #SLTchat #acute #AHPs