Bathing and showering in the bathroom

The client’s preference may be for a general bath (sometimes referred to as an ‘up bath’ or shower. An assessment of the individual client’s preference along with an assessment of their strength, mobility and mental capacity is essential prior to the carrying out of this activity. The nurse must ensure the client’s safety at all times. The procedures and rationales of bathing/showering in the bathroom are given below.

Procedure	Rationale
Plan the activity with the client and explain the procedure	To gain consent and co-operation
Prepare a warm environment, and ensure that all equipment is in the bathroom/shower room prior to taking the client	Prevents cooling. Ensures privacy and client safety. Saves time and is therefore a more effective use of resources
Assist the client in gathering towels, clean clothing/nightwear and toiletries. Walk with the client to the bathing area (if appropriate). If the client has difficulty mobilizing, it may be necessary to use a mechanical hoist or wheelchair	Promotes independence and ensures client safety
Apply apron, wash hands and apply gloves as appropriate	Personal protection and prevention of cross-infection
Line the bath with a plastic liner and prepare the water for the bath/shower, monitoring the temperature using a lotion thermometer, and adjust to meet client’s preferences.	Reduces potential for cross-infection. Promotes client safety and comfort
NB Always run cold water first and adjust to warm (approx. 30oC).	To prevent scalding
Assist client in undressing, but keep covered until immersed in water	To promote and maintain client independence and to maintain body temperature, client dignity and privacy
Assist client into bath or under the shower. Two nurses may be required for this activity (client may need to sit on hoist seat in the bath, or shower chair in the shower)	Client safety/comfort
Assist the client in washing, ensuring face, neck and upper body are washed first	To reduce risk of cross-contamination
If required, assist client in washing hair	To promote a sense of well-being and a positive body image
When finished, assist client out of bath/ shower. Ensure towels are immediately available for drying	To promote client safety. To prevent body cooling
Assist client to dry as necessary paying particular attention to feet and in between toes	Leaving moist areas can lead to excoriation and infection
Encourage client to sit on chair, if unsteady, covered by a towel	Client safety, warmth and protection
Assist client to dress as desired	Promote independence, self-esteem
Assist the client in cleaning teeth/dentures either at sink, in bathroom or showering area (see below)	To promote good oral hygiene, client comfort and well-being
Assist the client in combing/brushing hair	To promote a positive self-image
Assist the client in gathering all toiletries before returning to client’s bed area	Safety and security
Assist the client to chair or bed depending on client’s preference and ensure they are left with their belongings within easy reach	Client comfort and safety
Remove any equipment from bathroom/ shower area. Clean, dry or dispose of as required. Clean the bath out thoroughly	To reduce the risk of cross-infection
Remove apron and gloves and wash hands	Prevent risk of cross-infection
Record in nursing care records. Report any abnormal findings or adverse reactions	Legal requirement. Facilitates effective communication amongst health care staff