Perineal Genital Care

Perineal Area:
• Is located between the thighs and extends from the symphysis pubis of the pelvic bone (anterior) to the anus (posterior).
• Contains sensitive anatomic structures related to sexuality, elimination and reproduction

Perineal Care (Hygiene)
• Is cleaning of the external genitalia and surrounding area
• Always done in conjunction with general bathing

Patients in special needs of perineal care
• Post partum and surgical patients (surgery of the perineal area)
• Non surgical patients who unable to care for themselves
• Patients with catheter (particularly indwelling catheter)

Other indications for perineal care are:
1. Genito- urinary inflammation
2. Incontinence of urine and feces
3. Excessive secretions or concentrated urine, causing skin irritation or excoriation

Purpose
• To remove normal perineal secretions and odors
• To prevent infection (e.g. when an indwelling catheter is in place)
• To promote the patient's comfort
• To facilitate wound healing process

Equipments
• Bath towel
• Cotton balls and gauze squares
• Pitcher with worm water or/and prescribed solution in container
• Gloves
• Bed pan
• Bed protecting materials
• Perineal pad or dressing (if needed)

Procedure
1. Patient preparation
• Give adequate explanation
• Provide privacy
• Fold the top bedding and pajamas (given to expose perineal area and drape using the top linen.)
• Position pt lying on back with knees flexed and spread apart.
• Place bed protecting materials under the pt's hip
• Place the bedpan under pt's buttock.

2. Cleaning the genital area
• Put on gloves

For Female
• Remove dressing or pad used
• Inspect the perineal area for inflammation excoriation, swelling or any discharge.

a. In case of post partum or surgical patient
• Clean by cotton swabs, first the labia majora then the skin folds between the majora and minora by retracting the majora using gauze squares, clean from anterior to posterior direction using separate swab for each stroke. (This directions lessens the possibility of urinary tract contamination)

b. In case of non-surgical patients
• Wash or clean the genital area with soapy water using the different quarters of the washcloth in the same manner.