Knowledge, perceptions and practices of a nursing team on oral health in a hospital: a qualitative research

Abstract

The hospitalar dentistry has shown greater concern with the the integral approach of patients, since the non-treatment or deterioration of pathologies of the oral cavity can impact their general health. The aim of this study was to analyze, using a qualitative approach of an exploratory nature, the knowledge and practices of the nursing staff on oral health in a hospital. The sample consisted of 2 nurses and 6 nursing techniques. Data collection was done through semi-structured interviews and the content analysis was performed on 3 thematic groups: practice and hygiene, oral health knowledge, meanings of health care. According to the obtained data, it was possible to observed the lack of attention regarding the oral health care in hospitals, as well as the need for guidance and training of nursing staff to perform such care. It could be concluded that it is necessary to adopt measures focused on oral health care, to promote health, reforcing the importance of oral health, in an integral part of reestablishment of general health, in full attention to hospitalized patient.

Keywords: Dentistry, nursing, health promotion, hospitalization.