Different Oral Colonization of Gram-negative Bacteria in ICU Patients When Using Chlorhexidine at 0.12% Versus Chlorhexidine at 2.0%

Differences Between Oral Colonization Rates of Gram-negative Bacteria in ICU Patients When Using Chlorhexidine Mouthwash at 0.12% Versus Chlorhexidine Mouthwash at 2.0%

This study will assess the utility of different chlorhexidine mouthwash concentrations on ICU patients to decolonize their oral cavities from gram-negative bacteria, since this is a non-desirable condition that leads to higher mortality rates and longer hospitalization times. One group will receive the 0.12% chlorhexidine mouthwash and the other group will receive the 2% chlorhexidine mouthwash.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients with minimum required age of consent that were admitted to the intensive care unit and who received at least 48 hours of mechanical ventilation.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Patients who wish to withdraw consent and leave the study.