How to clean the tongue

[angiealf]

My mother inlaw is in hospital after having a stroke. All of left side is paralised and she can't eat, drink or speak. The nurses are able to clean the front of her teeth but she clamps her teeth closed when they try to clean inside. Her tongue is looking awful and her breath is bad. Medical staff are now getting worried about this. Any ideas on how to solve this problem.

[J9PUR]

If the hospital has a Maxillo-facial unit, ask her to be seen by one of the SHO's who will be able to advise her. She ought to be checked for oral fungal infections if her tongue is 'looking awful'

Using Chlorhedine mouthwash (if she is able) will help in the short term, or Chlorhexidine gel.