Mouth problems at the end of life

At the end of life, mouth care focuses on comfort: a moist, clean mouth, less pain and care that fits the person's wishes and capacity.

• A dry, sticky mouth, cracked lips, crusts or thick, stringy saliva.
• Red, fragile mouth lining, small ulcers, white patches or easy bleeding on contact.
• Only offer small sips or ice chips if the person is awake, wants to drink and can swallow safely.
• Gently moisten the mouth and tongue with wet gauze, a soft brush or a recommended aid.
• Contact the palliative care team for new mouth pain, white patches, an unpleasant smell, bleeding or dentures that no longer fit.
• For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.