MOUTH CARE – BRUSH A RESIDENT’S TEETH

1) Perform hand hygiene.

a. Cover all surfaces of the hands with hand sanitizer.

b. Rub hands together to dry.

2) Explain the procedure to be performed to the resident.

3) Put on gloves.

4) Gather equipment/supplies.

5) Provide privacy for the resident; pull the privacy curtain.

6) Drape the chest with a chest barrier (cloth or paper towel) to prevent soiling.

7) Wet the toothbrush and apply a small amount of toothpaste to the toothbrush. (If available, toothettes may be utilized instead of the toothbrush as long as all the surfaces listed are cleaned.)

8) Brush the resident's teeth, including the inner, outer, and chewing surfaces of all upper and lower teeth.

9) Clean tongue.

10) Assist resident in rinsing their mouth.

11) Wipe the resident's mouth.

12) Remove the clothing protector and place it in the appropriate container.

13) Empty container. (Note: Container may be an emesis basin or a disposable cup.)

14) Rinse the emesis basin if used, or discard disposable items in a trash container.

15) Dry emesis basin if used.

16) Rinse toothbrush.

17) Return equipment to storage.

18) Leave the resident in a position of comfort.

19) Open the privacy curtain.

20) Maintain respectful, courteous interpersonal interactions at all times

21) Place the call light or signaling device within easy reach of the resident.

22) Remove gloves, turning them inside out as they are removed.

23) Dispose of gloves in a designated container.

24) Perform hand hygiene.

a. Cover all surfaces of the hands with hand sanitizer.

b. Rub hands together to dry.