(piano music)
[Narrator] When someone is confined to bed,
help with personal hygiene
can provide physical and emotional comfort.
It's also a good time to talk
to the person you're caring for.
When bathing a person,
it's important to consider the timing.
Bathing can sometimes be tiring
for the person who has little energy.
So, timing the bath to allow for rest afterward
can help ensure they're still able
to participate in activities that they find meaningful.
If the person experiences discomfort or pain with movement,
administering pain medication prior to the bath
can help them to be more comfortable.
Check with your healthcare provider about what kind
and how much medication should be given.
Gather the supplies you'll need
so they're close at hand during the bath.
These may include a clean nightgown or clothing,
a wash basin filled with warm water,
a mild soap that's gentle to the skin,
face cloths and towels,
and lotion that's non-alcohol-based.
It's important to wash your hands
before and after providing care.
Raise the level of the bed if possible.
This will help reduce the amount of strain on your back
when giving the bath.
If the bed has side rails,
lower the side rail closest to you,
but leave the rail on the opposite side up for safety
and for the person to hold onto as able when turning.
To ensure privacy and help the person stay warm,
make sure they're covered with a blanket during the bath.
Try to expose only the part of the body
you're actually washing,
and recover that area after it's been washed and dried.
Dip the washcloth into the basin
and squeeze out any excess water.
Fold the washcloth so it fits comfortably in your hand.
Begin with the face.
Now, maintaining as much independence as possible
is important for a patient's dignity.
So, if they're able, let the patient wash their own face,
showing them how to use a different part of the washcloth
to wipe over each eye.
Next, wash the upper body, hands, and arms.
Be sure to dry the areas well
before recovering the person with a blanket.
You may have to change the water several times
to make sure it stays clean and warm
throughout the bath.
After you've washed their legs and feet,
help the person roll onto their side
so you can wash their back.
Pull yourself right over.
[Narrator] Use a towel to protect the bed linen
As you wash, inspect the skin for any signs of irritation,
pressure sores, or skin breakdown.
If changes are noted in the skin,
it's important to share this with your healthcare provider.
Wash the person's genital area last
while they're in this position,
making sure to wipe from front to back.
You can apply lotion to the back
or any parts of the body that feel dry.
It's important to avoid alcohol-based lotions,
as these can dry the skin.
Change soiled or wet sheets after the bath is completed.
Help the person put on clean pajamas or nightgown,
then lower the bed to its original position
if it was raised prior to starting the bath.
And finally, wash your hands.
Note that as illness progresses,
this procedure may require two people to complete.
(piano music)