Oral hygiene care levels in Iowa intermediate care facilities

This study was undertaken to improve understanding of current oral hygiene care practices in intermediate care facilities. Questionnaires were sent to directors of nursing of all licensed intermediate care facilities in Iowa. Results show that an estimated 57% of residents needed direct oral hygiene assistance. In all intermediate care facilities, the majority of direct oral hygiene care was provided by aides. Oral hygiene care was often not provided at an optimal level, and the main reasons reported for this lack of care were uncooperative residents (82%), lack of perceived need by aides (68%), and inadequate time/personnel (49%). Development and promotion of oral hygiene care programs in intermediate care facilities must take into consideration the realities and problems involved. Otherwise, efforts to introduce or implement new or improved care programs will fail.