As Bill is NBM what actions should you take? Select Yes or No to the actions listed below.
Avoiding mouthcare on the assumption that as Bill is not eating or drinking, he does not need mouthcare
Poor oral hygiene leads to changes in bacteria, increases the potential for fungal infections and Staph Aureus which can lead to aspiration pneumonia even on his own secretions.
Letting Bill have little sips of water to keep his mouth moist
This will be likely to cause aspiration as Bill is NBM.
Adopting the approach that staff should provide or help Bill with regular mouthcare
Regular oral hygiene will maintain an intact/well hydrated oral mucosa, prevent infection and dental caries, increase Bill’s knowledge of hygiene practices and promote Bill’s comfort.
Allowing Bill to have thickened fluids and/or small amounts of puree, to keep his mouth moist
Nil by mouth means just that until he has been assessed by appropriate qualified staff.
Page last reviewed: 29 Apr 2021
