J Educ Res Nurs. 2024; 21(4): 273-280 | DOI: 10.14744/jern.2024.90094

Healthcare Staff’ Views on Oral Health in Palliative Care Patients: A Qualitative Study

Yasemin Özer Güçlüel¹, Satı Birbudak^2
1Department of Internal Medicine Nursing, Halic University School of Nursing, İstanbul, Türkiye
²Dr. Siyami Ersek Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery Training Hospital, İstanbul, Türkiye

Background: Palliative care aims to identify, evaluate, and treat pain and other physical, psychological, and mental problems as early as possible. A good level of oral health positively affects the quality of life. For this reason, regular oral evaluation and care should be performed to protect oral health in palliative patients.

Aim: The study aims to examine the oral health experiences of health professionals in palliative care units.

Methods: This study was carried out using the Phenomenology design, one of the qualitative research methods. The study sample consisted of active members of the Palliative Health Services Association. Content analysis was applied by dividing the interview reports into codes and themes. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist was used.

Results: It was determined that 44% of the participants were physicians, 56% were nurses, and 62% had 1-5 years of experience working in the palliative unit. In this study, factors affecting oral health in palliative care patients include lack of hygiene, oral mucosa disorders, and fungal infections. Disease diagnosis, patient non-compliance, and workload are among the factors that complicate oral care in inpatients.

Conclusion: This study may raise awareness about oral health among healthcare professionals. It was revealed that more comprehensive studies should be conducted on oral health and protection in palliative care.

Keywords: Disease prevention, outcome assessment (health care), qualitative study

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