(7)
With clean water, finish washing the patient's face.
b. Always use an electric razor on patients with bleeding disorders to prevent
uncontrollable bleeding from facial cuts.
c. Do not use plugged in electric razors on patients who are receiving oxygen
therapy because of the danger of combustion; safety razors or rechargeable battery
operated shavers are safe.
d. Consult with the charge nurse before shaving any patient who has had facial
surgery or who may have hemophilia.
e. Patients who are combative, suicidal, or disoriented should have supervision
and assistance while shaving.
3-12. PERINEAL CARE
a. Perineal care is often referred to as "pericare;" it consists of external irrigation
of the vulva and perineum following voiding or defecation and is part of the routine A. M.
and P. M. care.
b. Patients may be able to perform their own perineal care or may need partial
or total assistance from the nurse.
c. Embarrassment on the part of the patient and the nurse can be effectively
dealt with by ensuring patient privacy during the procedure and not totally exposing the
patient's genital area.
d. Key points.
(1)
Ensure patient privacy.
(2) Wipe from front to back (vagina toward rectum) on female patients to
avoid contaminating the vagina or urethral meatus.
(3)
Do not use the same washcloth for any other portion of the patient's
bath.
3-13. BED PATIENT'S HAIR CARE
a. Principles for Shampooing the Bed Patient's Hair.
(1)
The supine position is preferred for weaker patients.
(2) Patients with significant heart or lung disease will not tolerate being
supine; they must be in a sitting position.
MD0905
3-12