Abnormal findings are charted as a chain — finding, severity, comparison to baseline, the risk it creates, and the skilled action taken.
Airway-threatening oral or pharyngeal swelling, or angioedema of the lips and tongue — an emergency (route to Allergic/Immunologic for anaphylaxis).
Severe odynophagia with drooling, an inability to manage secretions, and fever — concerning for a deep-space infection or epiglottitis.
White curd-like plaques with soreness limiting intake — concerning for candidiasis reducing oral intake (route to Nutrition).
An oral lesion that does not heal over two weeks, or a firm or ulcerated mass — warranting evaluation for malignancy.
Gingival or oral bleeding, especially on an anticoagulant — requiring control and bleeding-risk review.
A severe dental infection with facial swelling, or floor-of-mouth swelling with tongue elevation — concerning for Ludwig’s angina, an airway emergency.
Denture-related ulceration or ill-fitting dentures causing pain and reduced intake — requiring intervention.
Significant xerostomia or mucositis impairing comfort and intake — requiring management.
