Many consider oral care an element of grooming, not an infection control measure. However, an association exists between poor oral care and systemic disease. For example, aspiration of oropharyngeal pathogens into the lungs can lead to pneumonia. Immobile or confined patients rely on oral care performed by nurses and other caregivers to prevent hospital-acquired pneumonia (HAP), the leading cause of mortality in older adults. Understanding the connection between proper oral care and HAP prevention can help nurses protect patients.
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