The Role of Oral Hygiene for the Prevention of Non-Ventilator Hospital Acquired Pneumonia

Abstract

Purpose of review There is increasing recognition of the role of oral hygiene in preventing non-ventilator hospital-acquired pneumonia (NV-HAP). We review the literature from the past five years, focusing on the effectiveness of oral hygiene interventions as preventive measures.

Recent findings Recent studies confirm that poor oral hygiene is associated with an elevated risk of NV-HAP, particularly in hospitalised and vulnerable patients. Oral care is now an established element of ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP) prevention bundles, while protocols for non-ventilated patients remain inconsistent. Evidence suggests that effectiveness depends less on oral care intervention frequency or choice of chemical agents, and more on structured delivery of care by trained healthcare staff.

Summary Oral hygiene is a vital yet often underemphasised factor in reducing NV-HAP. Standardising oral care protocols and providing ongoing staff training are essential to improve patient safety and reduce NV-HAP. Further studies are needed, but on the basis of existing evidence, healthcare providers should not delay investment in the implementation of oral hygiene clinical care pathways.