ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a case study of John, who is a 54-year-old man who had a surgery for a carcinoma of the colon. Oral assessment can identify sites of infection and chronic irritations in the mouth, which is important, as oral dysfunction significantly affects the client's quality of life. Frequent mechanical cleansing of the mouth is more important in oral care than the antiseptic qualities of mouthwash. Regular mouth care is essential and the objective of such care is simple, i.e. to achieve a clean, moist, pain-free, noninfected mouth. Remove dentures if used and soak/clean accordingly. If patients have their own teeth, regular brushing is important. Alternatively, clean the mouth with sponge swabs or gauze over a gloved finger. Frequent sips or sprays of water, use of artificial saliva, ensure frequent mouth care, vaseline to lips, iced drinks, ice cubes, pineapple juice. Chewing gum helps some patients.
