(2)
Lotions and oils may be used after the bath.
3-5.
TIMING OF PATIENT HYGIENE PROCEDURES
A patient's bath may be given at any time, according to the patient's needs, but
certain routines are generally followed on a ward.
a. Morning Care.
(1) The procedure followed in the morning affects the patient's comfort
throughout the day.
(2) Each morning before breakfast, the patient should be assisted to the
bathroom, or a bedpan or urinal should be provided, according to the patient's activity
level.
(3) The patient is then given the opportunity to wash his/her hands and face
and brush his/her teeth. The bed linen is straightened, and the overbed table is cleaned
in preparation for the breakfast tray.
(4) After breakfast, the patient has a complete bath (type is dependent upon
the patient's condition and mobility), mouth care, a change of clothing, and a back
massage.
(5) Bed linens are changed; and the unit is cleaned and straightened to
provide a comfortable and safe environment for the patient.
b. Evening Care.
(1) The care the patient receives at the end of the day greatly influences the
patient's level of relaxation and ability to sleep.
(2) An opportunity is provided for elimination; the patient's hands and face
are washed; the teeth are brushed; a back rub is given.
(3) Bed linens are straightened; the patient's unit is straightened to ensure
comfort and safety. It is important that there are no items, which the patient could slip
on, or fall over, such as chairs or linens, on the floor.
3-6.
PROVIDING FOR SELECTED PATIENT NEEDS WHILE BATHING A PATIENT
a. Safety.
(1) The bed may be in the high position during the patient's bed bath, but
should be placed in the low position upon completion.
MD0905
3-4