b. Important Points. Bathing the patient following the proper procedure will
promote an effective towel bath, provide warmth, keep the bed dry, and avoid causing
the patient to chill.
c. Procedure.
(1) Check the physician's orders. Confer with the nurse in charge to
determine need for towel bath.
(2)
Explain the procedure to the patient.
(3)
Adjust the room temperature, and provide privacy.
(4)
The following supplies and equipment should be assembled:
(a)
Concentrate and/or solution Septi-Soft.
(b) Measuring device, such as liter-calibrated device or plastic
(c)
Towel (3 ft x 7 1/2 ft).
(d) Large plastic bag.
(e) Bath towel.
(f)
Washcloths (2).
(g) Bath blankets (2 or 3).
(h) Disposable gloves.
(i)
Linens for bedmaking.
(j)
Articles for personal hygiene (comb, toothbrush, lotion, toothpaste,
mouthwash).
(5)
Prepare the patient for a towel bath.
(a) Remove patient's clothing and excess bedding (top linens, bed
spread). Place the patient on the bath blanket and cover the patient with the blanket.
(b) Cover the areas that should not be wet (surgical dressings, casts)
with plastic.
MD0556
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