The province is giving a local company a boost to aid in its testing and development of a medical device that helps with oral care of medically ventilated patients.

Government is putting up $149,000 to help Swiftsure Innovations Inc. with the second stage of the company’s development of the SwishKit.

The system aims to reduce the risk of Ventilator Acquired Pneumonia by providing a safe method for cleaning oral and nasal cavities of patients on life support.

The project also creates a new position for a clinical study coordinator that will be based out of Corner Brook.

Swiftsure founder and CEO Deanne McCarthy says the money will support the second clinical study, and will give the company clinical evidence required for widespread adoption of the SwishKit.

McCarthy says the device will improve patient outcomes, decrease health care costs and enhance patient comfort.