Case Study

Abstract

An institutionalized man with severe mental disability and cerebral palsy, admitted from the ED with suspected aspiration pneumonia, died after a long struggle with respiratory difficulties. The cause of death was determined to be asphyxia resulting from a complete obstruction of the posterior pharynx and upper larynx by thickened oral and nasopharyngeal secretions. Although airway obstruction is common in people with motor or neurologic disorders and in those who are chronically debilitated or institutionalized, food and foreign matter are not the only culprits. This case serves to remind clinicians that a failure to provide good oral care and adequate hydration is not only poor practice but can result in death.

Proposal of Dental Hygiene Diagnosis for Cancer Patients Based on Dental Hygiene Process of Care in Acute Care Hospitals: A Narrative Review

“…[39] Risk for ineffective respiratory function The condition in which air passage through the respiratory tract is threatened. [40] Ineffective airway clearance The condition of inability to remove secretions or obstructions from the respiratory tract.…”