My plan
To implement my plan of providing dental care for people in hospice, I would first contact local hospice programs and ask what kind of dental care (if any) they provide. I would then tell them that I am interested in providing dental care for anyone in a hospice program. I would explain to them that this is a valuable service that the patient can benefit from, even though they may be in the final stages in life. Patients can experience dry mouth, excessive plaque buildup, and mouth sores, all due to the side effects of medication and the illness itself. Psychologically, having a clean mouth can make the person feel better overall, and make them feel that all areas of their body are being cared for. I would suggest that the patient have their teeth brushed at least once a day, depending on the stage of illness they are at. I would also suggest teaching the family--if they are comfortable in doing so--how to care for the teeth themselves, but relieving them every few days so as to check the status of the patient myself. I think this is a good start, but help me out with some more suggestions!!
posted by Melissa @ 2:20 PM
2 Comments:
Melissa,
You have included some rationale as to why this population needs attention and then you listed your idea for an educational campaign which includes some follow-up care for oral hygiene. This is a good plan.
When you introduce your next assignment, I would like you to state your larger goal, such as: I would like to address the oral health care needs of hospice clients. My objectives are to increase the knowledge level of program participants and their care givers as well as implement a strategy for increased oral care either by the client themselves or by their care giver. Then you could state those activities and logistics that need to be considered to implement this plan.
This is a great plan Melissa. These people have so much to worry about with their health already, I think it is great to take a little bit of the worry off of their hands by helping them and their families with their dental care.
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