Shilpi Ajwani1, Caleb Ferguson2, Ariana C Kong3, Amy R Villarosa3, Ajesh George4. 1. Oral Health Promotion and Oral Health Research, Sydney Local Health District Oral Health Services/Sydney Dental Hospital/University of Sydney, Sydney, 2010, Australia. 2. Heart Foundation Postdoctoral Fellow, Western Sydney Nursing and Midwifery Research Centre, Western Sydney University/Western Sydney Local Health District/Centre for Oral Health Outcomes and Research Translation (COHORT)/Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research/Translational Health Research Institute (THRI) Blacktown Clinical and Research School Blacktown Hospital, Marcel Crescent, Blacktown, NSW, 2148, Australia. 3. Centre for Oral Health Outcomes and Research Translation (COHORT), South Western Sydney Local Health District/Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, Western Sydney University, Liverpool, NSW, 2170, Australia. 4. Centre for Oral Health Outcomes and Research Translation (COHORT), South Western Sydney Local Health District/Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research/Translational Health Research Institute/University of Sydney, Western Sydney University, Liverpool, NSW, 2170, Australia. a.george@westernsydney.edu.au.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Stroke is a serious cerebrovascular disease and is one of the world's leading causes of disability. Maintaining good oral health is a challenge among those hospitalised after stroke. A multidisciplinary approach to oral care involving non-dental professionals can be beneficial in improving oral health outcomes for patients. The aim of this study was to understand the perceptions of stroke survivors regarding oral healthcare across acute and rehabilitation settings. METHODS: A descriptive qualitative approach was used. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted. A framework analysis was employed to analyse the data. Patients who had recently experienced a stroke were purposively recruited across both acute and rehabilitation settings, at two metropolitan hospitals in Sydney, Australia. In total, 11 patients were interviewed. RESULTS: Although participants recognised the importance of oral health, few understood the link between oral and general health. Regular oral hygiene practices varied since having stroke, with a few receiving oral care assistance from nurses. Time, cost and lack of information were some barriers to accessing dental services, while supportive measures such as coordination of oral care, financial subsidy and nurse assistance were strategies proposed to support oral care practices amongst stroke survivors. CONCLUSIONS: There is scope to improve current models of oral care in stroke. While stroke survivors understand the importance of oral care, an integrated oral health model with a multidisciplinary approach could improve health outcomes.
BACKGROUND:Stroke is a serious cerebrovascular disease and is one of the world's leading causes of disability. Maintaining good oral health is a challenge among those hospitalised after stroke. A multidisciplinary approach to oral care involving non-dental professionals can be beneficial in improving oral health outcomes for patients. The aim of this study was to understand the perceptions of stroke survivors regarding oral healthcare across acute and rehabilitation settings. METHODS: A descriptive qualitative approach was used. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted. A framework analysis was employed to analyse the data. Patients who had recently experienced a stroke were purposively recruited across both acute and rehabilitation settings, at two metropolitan hospitals in Sydney, Australia. In total, 11 patients were interviewed. RESULTS: Although participants recognised the importance of oral health, few understood the link between oral and general health. Regular oral hygiene practices varied since having stroke, with a few receiving oral care assistance from nurses. Time, cost and lack of information were some barriers to accessing dental services, while supportive measures such as coordination of oral care, financial subsidy and nurse assistance were strategies proposed to support oral care practices amongst stroke survivors. CONCLUSIONS: There is scope to improve current models of oral care in stroke. While stroke survivors understand the importance of oral care, an integrated oral health model with a multidisciplinary approach could improve health outcomes.
Entities:
Keywords:
Delivery of Health Care; Integrated; Oral health; Qualitative research; Stroke