BathingNATCEP Day Sixteen

ObjectivesDiscuss factors that affect a resident’s hygiene needs and

practices Identify the purposes of bathing Identify general guidelines to follow when bathing the resident

including measures for privacy and safety SKILL: Partial Bed Bath SKILL: Complete Bed Bath

Identify actions that promote comfort for the resident while being bathed SKILL: Backrub

Discuss factors related to perineal care SKILL: Perineal Care for the Female SKILL: Perineal Care for the Male

Discuss how tub and whirlpool bathes are givenDiscuss how shower baths are givenDiscuss how bag baths are given

Factors that Affect HygieneFrequent bathing with soap & water harsh

for older skinFever/illness may change frequencyPreferences based on past practices

Allow flexibility while maintaining cleanliness

Why bathing?Cleans the skinEliminates odorsRefreshing and relaxingStimulates circulationBody parts exercised

General GuidelinesFollow plan of careCollect needed itemsPrivacy!Rinse off soap well – can dry the skinPat skin dry Examine skin Limit use of powder and bath oilsAvoid chilling the resident

Promote ComfortMake a mitt of washclothKeep water comfortably warm and cleanWash and dry one body part at a timeGive a backrub and massage bony

prominences with warmed lotion

Perineal CarePerineum/Perineal Area: genital and anal

areas Provided during bath or as neededProvided following incontinence of urine or

fecesUse terms the resident understands and

that are in good taste professionallyWork from clean to dirty using clean area of

washcloth with each stroke

Tub or Whirlpool Baths

Tub or Whirlpool BathsCheck water temperatureFollow agency policy for transfers in and outNever leave resident unattendedAssist as neededEncourage range of motionAction of water cleanses, and helps prevent

and heal woundsDry carefully

Pay close attention to unexposed skinResident may feel faint or dizzy

Showers

ShowersCheck water temperatureNever leave resident unattendedAssist as neededIf the resident can stand, have him/her grab

bars for supportUse bath mat or shower chair as neededDry carefully before moving out of shower

Pay close attention to unexposed skin

Bag BathsCommercially prepared “bath in a bag”Contains 8-10 pre-moistened wash clothsNo rinsing requiredWarm washcloths according to

manufacturer’s instructionsUse new washcloth for each body partNo towels required – air dry