Effect of Chlorhexidine Mouthwash on Chemotherapy-Induced Oral Mucositis among Patients with Cancer

Background: Oral mucositis (OM) is a painful complication of cancer treatment that starts with inflammation in the oral mucosa and progresses to redness and ulcers. Severe pain from ulcers can affect speaking and eating. Purpose: To assess the effect of chlorhexidine mouthwash on chemotherapy-induced oral mucositis among patients with cancer. Design: A quasi-experimental research design was utilized for this study. Setting: The study was conducted at the Oncology Institute (inpatient department & outpatient clinic) at Menoufia University Hospital in Shebin El Koum, Egypt. Sample: A purposive sample of 100 patients who met the inclusion criteria was selected and divided into two equal groups (Study & Control). Instruments: Four instruments were used: Structured interview questionnaire, oral assessment guide, WHO oral mucositis assessment scale and visual analogue pain scale. Results: The study revealed a statistical significant difference between the study group and the control group in terms of oral cavity functions and grades of oral mucositis, with the study group showing better results post-intervention (P-values <0.001). The study also showed a lower occurrence of oral mucositis in the chlorhexidine group than the control group. Additionally, a highly significant statistical difference was observed between the two groups regarding pain scores in favor of the Chlorhexidine group in the second and third sessions (P-values <0.001). Conclusions: The study found that chlorhexidine mouthwash reduced oral mucositis grades, mucositis occurrence, and pain severity in the chlorhexidine group. It also reduced deterioration in oral health in the study group compared to the control group. Recommendations: Chlorhexidine mouthwash 0.12% is recommended in combination with routine hospital care to reduce oral mucositis, pain, and improve oral health.