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.