Results of Development Model of Oral Healthcare for Bed-Ridden Patients: Case Study: Kudjub District, Udon Thani Province

Abstract

Objective :  To examine the effects of developing an oral health care model for bedridden patients in terms of oral health status, knowledge, attitudes, practices, and the needs of both patients and their caregivers regarding oral health care. The study also aimed to assess patients’ quality of life specifically related to oral health.

Methods : This study employed incorporating both quantitative and qualitative research. The study population included bedridden patients and their caregivers in Kut Chap District, Udon Thani Province. A purposive sampling technique was used to select 13 bedridden patients and 13 caregivers. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics were assessed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. Qualitative data were analyzed through content analysis.  The developed care model included: Oral health education, Distribution of manuals and additional oral care equipment and Skills training for caregivers on how to perform oral care, Data collection tools included an interview form and an oral health assessment form.

Results : Regarding patients’ oral health, it was found that the individual plaque index significantly decreased after the implementation of the development program. The mean plaque index before and after the intervention was 0.74 and 0.60, respectively. A reduction in plaque index was observed in 53.85% of the patients. For the group whose plaque index remained unchanged (23.07%), it was because their initial index was 0 both before and after the program. Furthermore, during follow-up assessments conducted every 6 months over a 2-year period, it was found that most plaque index values remained relatively stable.

Conclusion : The development of caregivers’ knowledge, attitudes, and practical skills along with the provision of essential oral care equipment and a caregiver’s manual led to improved oral health among bedridden patients.