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