The need for oral assessment and referral practices tool for palliative patients in Brunei Darussalam: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Aim: This study aimed to investigate knowledge, experiences, perceptions and barriers of healthcare professionals regarding palliative oral care. Methods: The study involved 169 palliative care professionals in Brunei. Data collection tool was pretested, validated and self-administered with sections on demographics; knowledge, attitude and practices; referral of patients; perspectives; and barriers to oral palliative care. Results: 97.3% of participants believed that palliative patients need oral care, and 11.6% of participants were trained in this area. 43.8% were unsure about referral process, and 66.1% of participants had never used a tool to assess oral conditions of palliative patients. Most common oral condition encountered was mucositis (54.5%). 74.1% of participants expected family members to be responsible, and the absence of proper guidelines for assessment (66.1%) was the top challenge in providing oral care for palliative patients. Conclusion: This study highlights perceptions and experiences of healthcare professionals and need for improved care through development of oral assessment and referral practices tool for palliative patients.