The Importance of Oral Care in Intubated Patients

You may have seen it - a hospitalized patient who is intubated whose mouth looks drier than the Sahara Desert. Nothing is more irritating to me as a critical care nurse. The importance of oral care for intubated patients should not be overlooked, by nurses, doctors, or family members. Why? Because along with other steps, providing oral care every 6 to 8 hours can help reduce the incidence of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP).

VAP is a totally preventable, secondary consequence to intubation and mechanical ventilation. Studies have shown that the initiation of certain steps, including proper oral care, can help reduce the incidence of VAP in hospitalized patients. Learn what steps you can take as a nurse, doctor, or family member to help reduce the risk of VAP in your loved one:

The Importance of Oral Care in Intubated Patients