Survey on status of oral care practices and factors associated with confidence in oral care skills in ward nurses at an acute hospital in Japan

Nurses in high-need wards reported providing more comprehensive oral care. The availability of oral care manuals, assignment of core members for oral care, and provision of oral care training were effective in enhancing nurses' confidence in their oral care skills. These findings suggest that, to further promote oral care practices by nurses, dental professionals are required to closely collaborate with nurses, especially core members, and provide guidance and training regarding oral care practices.