‘It’s common sense, but it’s still got to be done properly’: Stroke survivors, carers and healthcare professionals’ experiences of mouth care following a stroke.

M Horne, C Smith

    Research output: Contribution to conferencePoster

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    Abstract

    Introduction: Mouth care is often overlooked during the acute phase and rehabilitation process for stroke, yet good oral hygiene is an important part of general health, wellbeing and quality-of-life. In the acute phase, poor mouth hygiene may increase the chances of developing pneumonia. During the rehabilitation process, poor oral hygiene increases the chances of developing oral disease and undermines oral and health-related quality-of-life. Little is known about stroke patients’ experiences of mouth care provision post stroke or carers and nurses experiences of providing mouth care for patients when they are unable to undertake mouth care.Method: A qualitative study based on five telephone interviews with stroke survivors and carers, to explore their experiences and perceptions of mouth care provision post stroke, and two focus groups with healthcare professionals to explore their attitudes, beliefs and perceptions of mouth care practice for stroke patients. Data were analysed using framework analysis approach.Results: Stroke survivors and carers identified a lack of mouth care practice and enablement by nursing staff. Healthcare professionals identified that there was inconsistency of mouth care practice, a lack of equipment and materials, no set protocols for mouth care or the use of formal oral assessment tools and no formal training provided to conduct mouth care. Conclusion: Mouth care post stroke could be improved by increasing patient, carer and healthcare professionals’ awareness, understanding and knowledge of mouth care. Further research is required to develop and enhance current mouth care provision in this important area of stroke care.
    Original languageEnglish
    Publication statusPublished - Dec 2011
    EventStroke Forum - Glasgow
    Duration: 29 Nov 20111 Dec 2011

    Conference

    ConferenceStroke Forum
    CityGlasgow
    Period29/11/111/12/11

    Keywords

    • Mouth care; oral hygeine; stroke; nursing care

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