ORAL HEALTH AND HEMODIALYSIS IN ADULTS WITH CHRONIC KIDNEY DISEASE: IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE – A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) affects millions worldwide, with hemodialysis being a primary treatment modality for end-stage renal disease. While the physiological and systemic implications of CKD are well-studied, the connection between oral health and hemodialysis remains underexplored. This systematic review investigates the impact of oral health on adult patients undergoing hemodialysis and highlights the implications for nursing practice. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across databases including PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL for studies published between 2015 and 2024. Studies were selected based on relevance, quality, and focus on oral health outcomes in CKD patients on hemodialysis. Findings indicate a high prevalence of oral pathologies such as xerostomia, periodontal disease, uremic stomatitis, and increased dental calculus in this population. Moreover, poor oral health was associated with increased systemic inflammation, malnutrition, and reduced quality of life. Nurses play a pivotal role in early detection, education, and referral for oral health care in dialysis units. Integrating oral assessments into routine nursing care could significantly improve outcomes and quality of life for CKD patients. This review underscores the need for interprofessional collaboration, nurse training, and policy development to bridge the gap between nephrology and oral health.