Nursing Management of the Infant with an Intraoral Appliance

A recently developed intraoral device is being used for infants who require orotracheal and orogastric intubation. The purpose of the appliance is to prevent complications associated with long-term intubation, such as palatal groove formation, acquired cleft palate, defective primary dentition, and chronic irritation of the airway. The nursing care required for an infant with this intraoral appliance is described. The procedure for daily removal of the appliance, oral hygiene, and assessment of the oral cavity is presented. Other nursing interventions addressed include provision of non-nutritive sucking, initiation of oral feedings, and parent teaching and support.