Journal of dental hygiene : JDH
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Very little research has been conducted about the state of oral healthcare for the terminally ill in Michigan hospice programs. The purpose of this study was to assess the oral healthcare services currently being provided by caregivers in Michigan hospice programs and to determine the needs for oral healthcare in-service training for nurses, home health aides, and volunteers who may provide basic oral care. ⋯ Although a wide range of oral healthcare services are being provided for terminally ill clients in Michigan hospice programs by nurses, aides, and volunteers, the majority of providers may not receive adequate information to provide complete and effective services. Based on these results, it is recommended that the dental hygienist take a leadership role in providing oral health information to hospice caregivers.