Providing Oral Hygiene CNA skills checklist

Perform hand hygiene and apply clean gloves

Critical step

Address resident by name and explain the procedure

Provide privacy

Raise head of bed to upright or semi-upright position if not contraindicated

Critical step

Place towel across resident's chest to protect clothing

Gather supplies: toothbrush, toothpaste, cup of water, emesis basin, lip moisturizer

Apply small amount of toothpaste to moistened toothbrush

Brush teeth using gentle circular motions on all surfaces - inner, outer, and chewing surfaces

Critical step

Brush tongue gently to remove bacteria and freshen breath

Allow resident to rinse mouth with water and spit into emesis basin

Repeat rinsing as needed until mouth is clean

Wipe mouth and chin with towel

Apply lip moisturizer if requested or needed

Position resident comfortably with call light within reach

Clean and store equipment properly

Remove gloves and perform hand hygiene

Critical step

Report any abnormalities to nurse (bleeding gums, sores, loose teeth)