The state of oral care practices after stroke: A two-region survey.

Background: Oral care is an essential aspect of optimal oral health, yet internationally little is known about current oral care practices for patients with stroke in hospitals. Aim: To explore oral care practices for inpatients with stroke in the UK and Australia. Method: Surveys questionnaires were mailed to stroke specialist nurse or lead stroke clinician in hospitals known to provide inpatient care for patients with stroke. Descriptive analyses are presented. Results: Response rates were high [UK: 86% (150/174)]; [Australia: 74% (120/162)]. Oral care protocols existed in 52% of UK and 30% of Australian hospitals. However, only 17% (n=26) of UK and 6% (n=7) of Australian units had stroke specific protocols. Oral care training was given to 55% (n=83) of UK and 30% (n=36) of Australian staff. Oral care assessment tools were used in 53% (n=80) of UK and 13% (n=16) of Australian hospitals, however, half, 50% (n=40) UK units and 38% (n=6) Australian units used generic tools. Oral care assessments were undertaken on admission in 73% (n=109) of UK and 57% (n=68) of Australian hospitals. When patients were unable to provide their own oral care, staff were only expected to undertake cleaning of natural teeth twice a day in 62% [n=93] of UK and 56% (n=67) Australian hospitals. It was an expectation in only half (UK: 54% [n=81]; AUS: 55% [n=66]) of the hospitals that patients 'nil by mouth' were to receive oral care three times a day. Conclusion: Unacceptable variability exists in oral care practices for stroke in both regions with Australia having poorer practices than the UK. Oral care is a neglected area of stroke clinical practice. Some results reflect an expectation only, the actual practice is likely to be even lower. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]