(11) Make unoccupied bed if patient can tolerate sitting in chair. Perform
back, hair, nail, and skin care.
(12) Return to shower or tub. Clean according to SOP. Place all soiled
linens in laundry bag and return all articles to patient's bedside.
(13) Wash hands.
1-6.
ADMINISTERING A TEPID SPONGE BATH FOR TEMPERATURE
REDUCTION
a. General. A patient whose temperature reaches 102.2F will usually develop
flush color, very warm and moist skin, and an accompanying headache. A tepid sponge
bath may be recommended to reduce body temperature. Desired temperature reached
is 99.6F.
b. Important Points.
(1) Remind the patient to call for assistance when getting up. The
combination of the elevated temperatures and sponge bath could weaken the patient.
(2)
Check the patient's temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate every 15
minutes.
(3)
Maintain a level of privacy.
c. Procedure.
(1)
Observe patient for elevated temperature. Review physician's orders.
(2)
Explain the procedure to patient.
(3)
Prepare the equipment:
(a) Bath basin.
(b) Tepid water (37C; 98.6F)
(c)
Washcloth (4).
(d) Bath thermometer.
(e) Bath blanket.
(f)
Patient thermometer.
MD0556
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