Oral assessment and intervention.

Oral care is a vital component of the holistic care given to patients and is necessary to promote the overall well-being of all individuals (Bowsher et al 1999). Yet there is evidence within the available literature that the delivery of oral care within institutional settings is fragmented (Paterson 2000, Roberts 2000a). In addition, documentation to indicate that oral assessment has been undertaken is all too frequently not taking place (Roberts 2000a). This can have an impact on a professional’s accountability and duty of care (UKCC 1996). There have also been recent government initiatives designed to raise standards of care, including oral care practices – these were included in the document The Essence of Care (DoH 2001). In order to deliver appropriate oral care, careful assessment is vital to identify a patient’s oral status. Older people are particularly vulnerable to developing oral complications which can result in: poor nutrition and hydration oral infection and consequential systemic infections oral discomfort and pain communication difficulties reduced psychological and emotional well-being (Roberts 2000a).