Skill Checklists for Taylor's Clinical Nursing Skills: A Nursing Process Approach

135

Skill Checklists for Taylor's Clinical Nursing Skills:
A Nursing Process Approach, 3rd edition

Name Date

Unit Position

Instructor/Evaluator: Position

SKILL 7-4

Providing Denture Care

Goal:The patient will have a clean mouth and clean dentures,

exhibit a positive body image, and verbalize the importance

of oral care. Comments

1. Perform hand hygiene and put on PPE, if indicated.


2. Identify patient. Explain procedure to patient.


3. Assemble equipment on overbed table within reach.


4. Provide privacy for patient.


5. Lower side rail and assist patient to sitting position, if
   permitted, or turn patient onto side. Place towel across
   patient’s chest. Raise bed to a comfortable working position,
   usually elbow height of the caregiver (VISN 8 Patient Safety
   Center, 2009). Put on gloves.


6. Apply gentle pressure with 4 4 gauze to grasp upper
   denture plate and remove it. Place it immediately in
   denture cup. Lift lower dentures with gauze, using slight
   rocking motion. Remove, and place in denture cup.


7. Place paper towels or washcloth in sink while brushing.
   Using the toothbrush and paste, brush all surfaces gently
   but thoroughly. If patient prefers, add denture cleaner to
   cup with water and follow directions on preparation.


8. Rinse thoroughly with water. Apply denture adhesive, if
   appropriate.


9. Use a toothbrush and paste to gently clean gums, mucous
   membranes, and tongue. Offer water and/or mouthwash
   so patient can rinse mouth before replacing dentures.


10. Insert upper denture in mouth and press firmly. Insert
    lower denture. Check that the dentures are securely in
    place and comfortable.


11. If the patient desires, dentures can be stored in the denture
    cup in cold water, instead of returning to the mouth. Label
    the cup and place in the patient’s bedside table.


12. Remove equipment and return patient to a position of
    comfort. Remove your gloves. Raise side rail and lower
    bed.


13. Remove additional PPE, if used. Perform hand hygiene.

Copyright © 2011 by Wolters Kluwer Health | Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. Skill Checklists for Taylor's Clinical Nursing Skills:

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