Dimens Crit Care Nurs. 2026 Mar-Apr 01;45(2):96-102. doi: 10.1097/DCC.0000000000000743. Epub 2026 Jan 23.
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the effectiveness of the care intervention, which consists of the combination of cold water spray, cold water application with swap, and menthol moisturizer application in reducing dry mouth and thirst in intensive care (ICU) patients.
DESIGN: The population of this quasi-experimental study consisted of patients hospitalized in the level 3 ICU of a university hospital between October 2019 and March 2021.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY: The care intervention consisting of cold water spray, cold water application with swap, and menthol moisturizer application was applied to the experimental group 3 times a day for 2 days. The control group underwent routine oral care in the clinic. The population of this quasi-experimental study: main outcome measures: The study data were collected using the Thirst Severity Assessment Scale (TSAS), Thirst Distress Assessment Scale (TDAS), and Eilers Oral Assessment Guide.
RESULTS: No statistical difference was found between the groups when the mean score differences of dry mouth on day 1 and day 2 after the intervention compared with before the intervention (P>0.05). However, when the mean differences of Thirst Severity and Thirst Distress scores on both day 1 and day 2 were compared, it was observed that the mean scores of the experimental group patients decreased significantly more (P<0.05).
CONCLUSIONS: It was concluded that the care intervention consisting of cold water spray, cold water application with swap, and menthol moisturizer application was not effective in eliminating dry mouth, but it was effective in reducing the feeling of thirst.
IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE: This care practice can be used to reduce the feeling of thirst, which is one of the most common symptoms in the ICU.
PMID:41576357 | DOI:10.1097/DCC.0000000000000743
