Assessing the Relationship between Oral Health and Systemic Infections in Hospitalized Patients
Authors: Rawabi A. Aldosary, Nada A. Alzahrani, Ebtesam A. Alamri, Faizah A. Garwi, Ebtesam H. Alotaibi, Razan A. Almudhhi, Redha M. Alanazi, Awadh M. Alanizi, Ahmed A. Aljabr
DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.14186731
Short DOI: https://doi.org/g8rfzm
Country: Saudi Arabia
Full-text Research PDF File:
View |
Download
Abstract: Oral health plays a critical role in the prevention of systemic infections, particularly in hospitalized patients. This study aimed to assess the relationship between oral health and the occurrence of systemic infections in a hospital setting. Conducted in a tertiary hospital over six months, the study involved 150 patients who were hospitalized for at least seven days. Oral health was assessed using the Oral Hygiene Index (OHI), while systemic infections were monitored throughout the hospital stay. The results indicated that patients with poor oral hygiene were significantly more likely to develop systemic infections compared to those with good oral hygiene (OR = 4.85, 95% CI: 2.37 - 9.92, p < 0.001). Findings emphasize the need for effective oral care protocols to prevent hospital-acquired infections, improve patient outcomes, and reduce healthcare costs. Interdisciplinary approaches involving dental hygienists, nurses, and laboratory specialists are crucial for maintaining oral health and minimizing the risk of systemic complications.
Keywords: Oral health, systemic infections, hospital-acquired infections, Oral Hygiene Index, interdisciplinary care, hospitalized patients
Paper Id: 231623
Published On: 2022-05-04
Published In: Volume 10, Issue 3, May-June 2022
Cite This: Assessing the Relationship between Oral Health and Systemic Infections in Hospitalized Patients - Rawabi A. Aldosary, Nada A. Alzahrani, Ebtesam A. Alamri, Faizah A. Garwi, Ebtesam H. Alotaibi, Razan A. Almudhhi, Redha M. Alanazi, Awadh M. Alanizi, Ahmed A. Aljabr - IJIRMPS Volume 10, Issue 3, May-June 2022. DOI 10.5281/zenodo.14186731