Objective A systematic review was conducted based on the domestically published literature for improving the quality of oral nursing care.Methods The terms "oral nursing care", "oral hygiene care", "mouth care" were used to search related studies in Chinese databases (up to April 30, 2004) along with handsearching additional studies. Four authors screened and selected the studies, appraised the methodological quality and extracted data from these selected studies. The results were presented by description or Meta-analysis. Results A total of 28 studies were identified, of which 6 were excluded. The methodological quality varied among the studies, 7 scored as B, 15 as C (11 randomized controlled trials, 4 quasi-randomized trials). A total of 2 372 patients were observed including some were critically ill, or intubated, or receiving radiotherapy or chemotherapy or undergoing surgical operations.Six authors of RCT replied and four of them provided more information on methods of randomization. Data analysis revealed that traditional oral nursing procedure was suitable for the severely sick patients who could not take self-care. Brushing and gargling were suitable for conscious patients who could use their hands. Tea and toothpaste were safe, economical and convenient oral nursing agents. Oral pH was a useful index for the selection of oral nursing agents and mouthwashes. A gargle containing sodium bicarbonate was used in the acidic oral environment and reduced fungal infection. The mouthwash with tea polyphenols had good effect for oral health, and might be as the first choice for prophylaxis of stomatitis induced by radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. Some mouthwashes developed by Chinese herbs improved oral health efficiently. Some disinfectants with good safety and low toxicity might be used as supplementary agents in oral nursing care. Conclusions Oral nursing care procedures have improved the efficiency of oral care. But the conclusion should be verified by more, well designed randomized controlled trials involving a collaborative multidiscipliary health care professionals. Oral nursing care practice needs to be evidence based.