ANALYSIS OF THE ORAL CONDITIONS OF PATIENTS IN AN INTENSIVE CARE UNIT

Objective To evaluate the oral conditions of patients admitted to an intensive care unit (ICU). Study Design A cross-sectional epidemiologic study, based on the retrospective and descriptive analysis of patient charts, with a quantitative data approach. Results Two hundred and sixty-two medical records were analyzed, but 132 were excluded because of the absence of oral cavity evaluation. The prevalence of hospitalization was higher in male sex (53.57%) in the fifth and sixth decade of life (25.89%). The mean age at the time of admission was 60.88 years for men and 65.76 years for women and the nosocomial pneumonias prevalence was 14.28%. Regarding to oral alterations, the lips was the most affected region (52.50%), followed by the tongue (41.66%). Mouth lesions included ulcers, scaling, labial dryness, swelling, and traumatic lesions. No association was found between nosocomial pneumonia and oral lesions or oral hygiene. Conclusions The results showed that, although there was no association between nosocomial pneumonia and oral changes, the alterations that affect the mouth have great relevance in the quality of life of the patients in ICUs. This data reinforces the importance of the presence of a dentist to support these patients. Support: FAPEMIG.