Nursing Interventions When Providing Oral Care

Inform the client and explain purpose of the procedure Provide privacy Assist in sitting or side-lying position Place towel under the client's chin. Moisten bristles of toothbrush and apply dentrifice. Hold kidney basin under the chin. Allow the client to brush his teeth, if possible. Use downward strokes for upper front teeth; upward strokes for lower front teeth; back and forth strokes for the biting surfaces of the teeth; and hold the brush against the teeth with bristles at 45 degrees angle to penetrate and clean under the gingival margins. Rinse the mouth with adequate amount of water. Floss the teeth. Keep the client comfortable. Do after-care of equipment and articles. Document relevant data