AACN Practice Alert: Implementing Effective Oral Care Practices for Acutely and Critically Ill Patients

Level A Meta-analysis of quantitative studies or metasynthesis of qualita tive studies with results that consistently support a specific action, intervention, or treatment (including systematic review of randomized controlled trials) Level B Well-designed, controlled studies with results that consistently support a specific action, intervention, or treatment Level C Qualitative studies, descriptive or correlational studies, integrative reviews, systematic reviews, or randomized controlled trials with inconsistent results Level D Peer-reviewed professional and organizational standards with the support of clinical study recommendations Level E Multiple case reports, theory-based evidence from expert opinions, or peer-reviewed professional organizational standards without clinical studies to support recommendations Level M Manufacturer's recommendations only Implementing Effective Oral Care Practices for Acutely and Critically Ill Patients