Poor oral hygiene in long-term care.

The poor oral care given to vulnerable patients in long-term care settings can have serious consequences, including increased risk of stroke, heart disease, and pneumonia. But improving oral care must begin with education, especially of providers who encounter resistant behavior in elderly and disabled residents. Nurses should make sure that the appropriate supplies are in place, promote the importance of oral care to all direct care staff and administrators, and make evidence-based recommendations during resident care conferences.