Many patients may be reluctant to eat because their teeth or mouth are sore..but not everyone checks

Sue James works as a volunteer and highlights a very serious problem that can often go unchecked....

I work as a volunteer at my local hospital mainly helping with feeding patients at lunchtimes. A lot have difficulty eating because of sore mouths. I feel it is important that every patient has their mouth checked on admittance,even before a dietician assesses them. They can then have treatment asap so they can eat and drink more comfortably,to help prevent malnourishment. The ward I'm on is very aware of helping patients eat,but they won't do if they are in discomfort. They often can't explain what is wrong, due to confusion or dementia,and sometimes it's just recorded on their chart as refused to eat,whereas it can simply be due to mouth ulcers or other mouth problems.I thought it may help to mention it as I know a lot of concerned and involved people read your website.
With all good wishes Sue James