Nursing care in the control of oral infections in patients admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU): A literature review

Abstract

Introduction: Oral hygiene is an essential factor in the prevention and maintenance of health, acting to reduce the proliferation of microorganisms and prevent diseases resulting from insufficient care in Intensive Care Units (ICUs). Objective: The main oral care measures provided in ICUs were described and comorbidities resulting from this lack of care were highlighted. Methods: This integrative literature review, with a qualitative approach, selected 12 articles published between 2013 and 2023 in the Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) and Virtual Health Library (VHL) databases, of which five were chosen for fully meeting the inclusion criteria. Results: In some services, oral hygiene is performed only once every 24 hours per patient, with toothbrushing recommended as the primary means of controlling plaque and biofilm formation. The use of chlorhexidine gluconate and propolis ethanol extract was also found to be effective in reducing salivary flow and preventing dry lips. This highlights the need for qualified and trained professionals committed to constant training and the application of institutional protocols that ensure safe and high-quality care. Conclusion: Poor oral hygiene can worsen patients' clinical condition, prolong hospital stays, and favor the emergence of complications, reinforcing the importance of systematic practices and a nursing team prepared to ensure effective care in an intensive care setting.