Oral Care for Residents

Nurse aides often manage the care of multiple residents, and residents encounter different aides daily. To ensure efficient and accurate oral care, it is essential to organize and label each resident’s oral care supplies. Specific areas or containers for each resident’s items, such as toothbrushes, interdental aids, and artificial saliva, should be designated to avoid confusion and ensure that all necessary aids are consistently used. Additionally, place disposable gloves near the oral care supplies to remind aides to use clean gloves for each session.

Nurse aides should actively support and encourage residents with their oral care routines, staying well-informed about each resident’s care plan. Care plans, which include initial health assessments and ongoing evaluations, detail the specific needs and preferences for each resident's care. These plans may specify the use of oral care aids, the presence of dentures or partials, and any supplemental agents needed, such as artificial saliva for dry mouth.

For residents capable of performing self-care, nurse aides should monitor their oral care practices to ensure that they are thorough and effective. For those needing assistance, aides should consult the care plan and apply appropriate techniques and approaches tailored to each resident’s individual needs.

Figure 1a - Sample Oral Care Plan⁸

Figure 1a - Sample Oral Care Plan⁸

Figure 1b - Sample Oral Care Plan⁸

Figure 1b - Sample Oral Care Plan⁸

Figure 1c - Sample Oral Care Plan⁸

Figure 1c - Sample Oral Care Plan⁸