Manual of Policies and Procedures for Wade Nursing Registry

Mouth Care for Unconscious Client

Material needed:

• Toothettes or applicators
• Padded tongue depressor
• Glycerine swabs ( if used )
• Petroleum jelly ( if used )
• Mouthwash
• Glass of cool water
• Emesis basin or small plastic bowl
• Face towel
• Paper towel
• Disposable gloves

Procedure:

1. Explain what you are going to do
2. Wash your hands
3. Obtain material listed above
4. Provide privacy (close door, pull curtains)
5. Spread paper towels on work area. Arrange supplies on paper towel
6. Raise bed to convenient working height. Lower rail on the side you are working
7. Place client in a side laying position
8. Place face towel and emesis basin under clients chin
9. Put on gloves
10. Gently open clients mouth with padded tongue blade
11. Moisten Toothette and clean all surfaces of mouth: roof of mouth, tongue, gums, lips, inside of cheeks. Clean teeth with Toothette
12. Wipe client's mouth with face towel
13. Remove face towel
14. Apply lubricant to lips
15. Remove and discard gloves
16. Make sure client is safe and comfortable
17. Place bed in the lowest position ( raise side rails if needed )
18. Clean equipment and store in proper location
19. Wipe work surface with paper towel and discard
20. Place soiled face towel in laundry container to be washed
21. Wash your hands
22. Record what you did, how client reacted and what time the procedure was completed.
23. Report any unusual conditions