Description

Our skin is our body’s largest defense system. Preventing any skin breakdown is essential for health and comfort. This topic describes giving a basin bath for a bed bound person and skin care.

Reminder

Safety is the primary concern when choosing to bathe in a shower or tub. The following factors will help to determine whether or not it can be safely accomplished.

1. Can the person get into and out of the tub or shower? Can the person either stand or sit upright in a shower chair or tub? Can that person be safely left alone for bathing?
2. Are there grab bars in the bath or shower?
3. Is the person able to distinguish the temperature of the water and either self-adjust or communicate if it is too hot or too cold?

What you'll need

• Basin, Bath or Shower
• Mild Soap
• Powder
• Soft wash cloths and drying towels
• Lubricating Skin Lotion
• Clean, Dry Bed Linens
• Pillows for Positioning
• Assistance

Task time
Full Bed Bath - 30 minutes
Partial Bed Bath - 10-15 minutes

Steps

• Assemble all bathing equipment and supplies
• Talk with the recipient about the bathing process before and during and make this an enjoyable process
• Adjust the room temperature for added warmth, and ensure privacy (shut curtains and doors.)
• Pay special attention to folds in skin (under breasts, under abdomen and between legs and private areas) and bony areas (back of head, ears, hips, spine, heels, elbows)—look for redness, opened areas or reports of pain
• Wash and pat dry thoroughly as moisture can cause chaffing
• Apply small amounts of body powder to a clean soft dry wash cloth and then dust skin lightly—avoid breathing in powder
• Apply skin lubricants in small amounts with gentle rubbing motion
• Use gentle touch when repositioning during bath, as pulling fragile skin across sheets can cause irritation and breakdown
• After bathing, provide clean dry bedding and gown/pajamas
• Assist in turning and repositioning for comfort and to avoid one position for more than 2 hours, as this may cause skin breakdown
• If redness or skin breakdown is beginning to occur, consult your health care professional for advice.

Reminder

Safety at all times must be the first consideration when choosing to bathe in a shower or tub.  Additional assistance should be carefully considered.

Acknowledgements
Thanks to hawknurse for posting a great video.