Bedbath & Perineal Care

Hygiene Measures:
Bedbath & Perineal Care
Prepared by:
Aleli R. Cheng, RN,MAN

Bedbath
• removes accumulated oil, perspiration, dead skin cells, and some
bacteria.
• also stimulates circulation. A warm or hot bath dilates superficial
arterioles, bringing more blood and nourishment to the skin.
• produces a sense of well-being. It is refreshing and relaxing and
frequently improves morale, appearance, and self-respect.
• offers an excellent opportunity for the nurse to assess all clients. The
nurse can observe the condition of the client’s skin and physical
conditions
Categories
1. Cleansing baths are given chiefly for hygiene purposes and include these types:
a.Complete bed bath. The nurse washes the entire body of a dependent client in bed.
b.Self-help bed bath. Clients confined to bed are able to bathe themselves with help from the
nurse for washing the back and perhaps the feet.
c.Partial bath (abbreviated bath). Only the parts of the client’s body are washed: the face, hands,
axillae, perineal area, and back. Omitted are the arms, chest, abdomen, legs, and feet.
d. Bag bath. This bath is a commercially prepared product that contains 10 to 12 presoaked
disposable washcloths that contain no-rinse cleanser solution.
e. Towel bath. This bath is similar to a bag bath but uses regular towels. It is useful for clients
who are bedridden and clients with dementia. The client is covered and kept warm throughout
the bathing process by a bath blanket.
f. Tub bath. Tub baths are often preferred to bed baths because it is easier to wash and rinse in a
tub. Tubs are also used for therapeutic baths. The amount of assistance the nurse offers
depends on the abilities of the client.
g. Shower- for ambulatory clients who are able to use shower facilities
2. Therapeutic baths- are given for physical effects, such as to soothe
irritated skin or to treat an area (e.g., the perineum). Medications may
be placed in the water. A therapeutic bath is generally taken in a tub
one-third or one-half full. The client remains in the bath for a designated
time, often 20 to 30 minutes.
Performance:
1.Prior to performing the procedure, introduce self and verify the
client’s identity. Explain to the client what you are going to do,
why it is necessary, and how he or she can participate. Discuss
with the client their preferences for bathing and explain any
unfamiliar procedures to the client.
2. Perform hand hygiene and observe other appropriate
infection control procedures. Provide for client privacy. Rationale:
Hygiene is a personal matter.
 3. Prepare the client and the environment.
 Invite a family member or significant other to
 participate if desired or requested by the client.
 Close windows and doors to ensure the room is a comfortable
temperature. Rationale: Air currents increase loss of heat from the
body by convection.
4. Offer the client a bedpan or urinal or ask whether the client wishes
to use the toilet or commode. Rationale: Warm water and activity can
stimulate the need to void. The client will be more comfortable after
voiding, and voiding before cleaning the perineum is advisable.
 Encourage the client to perform as much personal self-care as
possible. Rationale: This promotes independence, exercise, and
self-esteem.
 During the bath, assess each area of the skin carefully.
For a Bed Bath
•5.Prepare the bed and position the client appropriately.
• Position the bed at a comfortable working height. Lower the side rail on the side close to
you. Keep the other side rail up. Assist the client to move near you. Rationale: This avoids
undue reaching and straining and promotes good body mechanics. It also ensures client
safety.
6.Make a bath mitt with the washcloth. Rationale:A bath mitt retains water and heat better
than a cloth loosely held and prevents ends of washcloth from dragging across the skin.
Using a separate corner of the washcloth for each eye, wipe from the inner to the outer
canthus.
•Rationale: This prevents secretions from entering the nasolacrimal ducts.
Making a Bath Mitt, Triangular Method
A. Lay your hand on the washcloth; C. fold the side corners over your hand;
B. B fold the top corner over your hand; D. tuck the second corner under the cloth on the palm side to secure the
mitt.
Making a Bath Mitt, Rectangular Method
A, Lay your hand on the washcloth and fold one side over your hand;
B, fold the second side over your hand;
C, fold the top of the cloth down and tuck it under the folded side against your palm to secure the mitt.
Perineal Care
Materials
• Bath towel
• Bath blanket
• Clean gloves
• Soap
• Cotton Balls
• Forceps
• Bedpan
• Perineal Pad
END 

Bedbath & Perineal Care

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Hygiene Measures:

Bedbath & Perineal Care

Aleli R. Cheng, RN,MAN

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