What should be reported during oral care?

During oral care, it is crucial to report any concerns that may indicate potential problems with a patient's oral health. Reporting broken teeth, bad breath, and red areas is important because these symptoms can signify underlying issues that require attention. For example, broken teeth may lead to pain or infection, bad breath can be a sign of dental hygiene issues or systemic health problems, and red areas in the gums might indicate gingivitis or other conditions that could worsen if not addressed.

In contrast, mentioning freshly brushed teeth, the use of mouthwash, or flossing techniques does not highlight immediate issues that could affect the patient’s health. While these practices are important for maintaining good oral hygiene, they do not necessarily indicate problems that need to be reported to a healthcare provider. Thus, the focus should be on noting any abnormalities or concerns that could impact the patient's well-being.