Brushing, Hair Care, Nail Care PDF

BRUSHING The act of cleaning teeth and gums with a toothbrush and toothpaste to remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles, promoting oral hygiene and preventing oral diseases. Basic steps for brushing teeth in a bedridden patient: Step 1: Positioning (5 minutes): Positioning a bedridden p...

BRUSHING The act of cleaning teeth and gums with a toothbrush and toothpaste to remove plaque, bacteria, and food particles, promoting oral hygiene and preventing oral diseases. Basic steps for brushing teeth in a bedridden patient: Step 1: Positioning (5 minutes): Positioning a bedridden patient for brushing teeth requires careful consideration to ensure comfort, safety, and effective oral care. *Positioning Techniques: 1.Semi-Fowler Position: - Elevate head of bed to 30-40°. - Use pillows or wedges to support patient’s head and neck. - Patient’s mouth is accessible for brushing. 2.Lateral Position: - Patient lies on their side with head slightly elevated. - Use pillows or wedges to support patient’s head and neck. - Brush teeth on the upper side first, then turn patient to brush lower side. 3.Supine Position with Head Elevation: - Patient lies on their back with head elevated 30-40°. - Use pillows or wedges to support patient’s head and neck. - Brush teeth with patient’s mouth slightly open. NOTE: 1. Patients with respiratory issues: Elevate head of bed to reduce aspiration risk. 2. Patients with spinal cord injuries: Use careful positioning to avoid discomfort. 3. Patients with dementia: Use gentle, calming communication. Step 2: Prepare the Mouth (5 minutes): 1. Remove oral secretions or debris using a suction device or oral aspirator. 2. Clean the patient’s mouth with water or saline solution. 3. Apply topical anesthetic (if needed). Step 3: Brushing (2 minutes): 1. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and adjust toothbrush handle for easy grip. 2. Apply a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. 3. Brush in small circular motions, covering all surfaces. 4. Focus on the gum line, chewing surfaces, and areas around dental appliances. Step 4: Target Specific Areas (1 minute): 1. Brush the tongue and roof of the mouth. 2. Clean around dental appliances (dentures, bridges). 3. Brush the gum line, especially where teeth and gums meet. Step 5: Rinsing (1 minute): 1. Rinse the mouth with water. 2. Use a suction device to remove excess water. Step 6: Removal (1 minute): 1. Remove the toothbrush. 2. Dispose of any oral secretions or debris. Step 7: Documentation: 1. Document oral care activities. 2. Note any issues or concerns. NOTE: 1. Use gentle pressure and slow movements. 2. Monitor the patient’s comfort and vital signs. 3. Brush teeth at least twice a day. 4. Replace the toothbrush every 3-4 months. Benefits of brushing teeth in bedridden patients :  Prevents tooth decay and cavities. Reduces risk of gum disease Prevents bad breath and mouth odor. Maintains oral comfort and dignity. Prevents infections Supports nutrition and hydration. Enhances overall quality of life. Reduces risk of respiratory infections. Prevents complications from dry mouth. Complications of Poor Oral Hygiene: 1. Tooth decay and cavities. 2. Gum disease 3. Bad breath and mouth odor. 4. Dental work complications 5. Systemic infections (e.g., pneumonia). 6. Malnutrition and weight loss. 7. Decreased quality of life. Adaptive devices for brushing: Adaptive devices for brushing are designed to help individuals with limited mobility, strength, maintain independence and oral hygiene. 1.Ergonomic Toothbrushes: These have larger, cushioned handles or angled designs that make them easier to grip and maneuver for individuals with limited hand strength. 2.Electric Toothbrushes: With automatic brushing action, these require less manual effort. Some models also have timers and pressure sensors to ensure effective brushing. 3.Toothbrush with Universal Cuff: A universal cuff or strap attaches to the hand and the toothbrush, helping those with limited grip strength hold the brush more securely. 4.Weighted Toothbrush: Designed to provide extra weight, these brushes can help individuals who have shaky hands or difficulty controlling movement. 5.Adapted Handle or Extensions: Specially designed handle extensions can make it easier for people with limited reach or those with conditions like arthritis to brush their teeth more effectively. HAND WASHING: TECHNIQUE OF HAND WASHING : Remove all jewelries on the hands and wrists. Wet hands and forearms with adequate supply of water and soap NAIL CARE: Care of the nails includes trimming the nail short periodically and keeping the nails clean through frequent washing Purposes: a. To make the nail clean and harmless b. To prevent from infection c. To prevent accumulation of dirt underneath the nails d. Enhance the patient's general appearance Procedure: 1. Check the condition of the surfaces of fingers, toes and nails 2. Pay particular attention to areas of dryness, inflammation and cracking and areas between fingers, toes, heels and soles of feet 3. Explain the purpose and procedure to the patient and visitor 4. Wash hands with soap and water 5. Maintain privacy 6. Assist the patient to sit on a bed side chair or maintain fowler position in bed.  7. Instruct the patient to place his fingers in the bowl in a comfortable position for 3 necessary time period 5 minutes or 8. Dry the hands with towel 9. Start to trim the finger nails and cut free end of the finger nails straightly 10. Avoid trimming or digging into nails at the lateral corners. 11. Make the cut edge of the nail smooth by brush them with a file 12. Wipe all fingernails from thumb to 5th nail side by side by wet cotton ball. One cotton ball is used for one nail finger. 13. Cut the opposite hand nails in the same manner NOTE: a. Cleanliness of hands: Ensure client’s hands are clean and dried especially for clients whose hands tend to close most of the time. b. Finger and toe nails : should be cut short and straight cross to prevent in growing nails and infection.Nails should be clipped every 2 weeks.