The effectiveness of Salvadora persica stick on the colonization of oral pathogens in mechanically ventilated patients in the intensive care unit (ICU): A pilot study

Abstract

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of antibacterial Salvadora persica stick on the colonization of oral pathogens in patients with mechanical ventilation.

Method

This research is quasi-experimental research with pre-test–post-test design. Oral care was administered every 12 h on patients who required mechanical ventilation for less than 24 h. The colonization of oral pathogen assessment was conducted with swab oral treatment before and 48 h after mechanical ventilation. The data obtained were analyzed with a paired t-test.

Results

The results of this research showed that the antibacterial effect of S. persica stick was significant in preventing the increase in the amount of oral pathogen colonization in mechanically ventilated patients (p < 0.05). The colonization of oral pathogens decreased from 48 × 10⁶ CFU/ml to 14 × 10⁶ CFU/ml.

Conclusion

Oral care with S. persica can serve as a complementary therapy for patients with mechanical ventilation.