A Narrative of Oral Care in Palliative Patients
Siri Flagestad Kvalheim, Gunhild Vesterhus Strand
Abstract
Painful oral conditions represent a significant problem for most patients with a serious disease and palliative care needs. The main causes of such conditions may be associated with the underlying disease and its treatment, but primarily with adverse side effects of drugs. Oral conditions can lead to worsening of the illness and reduced quality of life. The objective of this narrative is to present an overview of oral care problems of this group, including present clinical practice. The evidence base for procedures and efficient products is weak. There is therefore an obvious need for research within this field.
Topics & Concepts
Palliative careMedicineQuality of life (healthcare)Intensive care medicineDiseaseNarrativeClinical PracticeAdverse effectNarrative reviewNursingInternal medicinePhilosophyLinguisticsOral health in cancer treatmentOral and gingival health researchPain Management and Opioid Use