What are the risk factors associated with poor oral care in the acute hospital setting?

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CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION

Background of the study

The word 'oral' is utilized all the way through this dissertation as it refers to the mouth all together, while, the term dental typically relates and refers to the teeth. Therefore, 'oral' comprise of gums and teeth where as the mucosa of the cheeks, lips, tongue, and palate. The health of mouth is usually referred to as a status of being free from facial pain, throat and oral cancer, tooth loss, tooth decay, periodontal (gum) disease, birth defects for instance, palate and cleft lip, oral sores, as well as various other disorders and diseases affecting the cavity of mouth (World Health Organization 2011). It is essential to take under consideration that the independence from pain doesn't essentially indicate freedom from infection and disease. On the other hand, the oral health may be utilized for describing the functioning of mouth sufficiently. Clear evidence exists indicating the oral modifications comprising of mucositis development leading to numerous serious and debilitating problems in the acute hospital setting. All of these comprise of discomfort and pain which leads to the incapability to talk, swallow, eat, or drink, which is known to have an impact on an individual's capability to recover along with affecting the quality of life. The modification of the usual flora of oral mucosa and the oral lining breakdown leads to an enhanced risk of systemic and local infections (Sonis, 2004).

Problem Statement

With an ever increasing population, there is a noteworthy group that is at an extremely higher risk of developing dental issues and complex oral diseases. During early 1930's, individuals aged 65 and above were doubled in the United Kingdom and currently, 1/5th of the population is aged 60 and above (Department of Health, 2001). According to United Nations (2002) by 2050, the sum of individuals aged 80 and above will make up 20% of the worldwide population. Therefore, ageing usually indirectly or directly augments the oral disease risk (Thorstensson and Johansson 2010). Despite this challenge, the effectual oral care is imperative for preventing oral diseases. Timely clinical interventions and preventions ensures that the dentition functions appropriately and an individual remains interactive socially (Sheiham et al 2001).

Purpose of the Study

The purpose of this literature review is to explore the microbial floral found in the oropharynx and evaluate the evidence base supporting optimal mouth care in the acute hospital settings.

Significance of the study

Oral health of an individual is an essential component of general health as it primarily affects the personal wellbeing and general health of an individual. The oral diseases mainly cause suffering with significant morbidity and pain. It aids in mastication of a healthy diet and it is also essential for appearance, socialization, and communication hence affecting the quality of life of an individual (NHS Health Scotland, 2010). For institutionalized individuals, the oral care just as similar to other personal care such as toileting and bathing is a necessary component of holistic ...