An ambulatory person should be encouraged to do as much of his
personal care as he can. Many people experience a real sense of
accomplishment in being able to take a shower or bath. This also
provides exercise and stimulates circulation. A tub or shower should
be considered only if the person is strong enough and if it is included
as part of the care plan approved by his/her doctor.
Special concerns in providing a safe bath:
Prepare the water and room before the person enters the bathroom.
Test the water on the inner wrist. The skin of the elderly person
may not be sensitive to the water's temperature. Hot water dilates
the blood vessels, decreases blood pressure, and thus increases
the elderly person's risk of blacking out, becoming dizzy or confused.
Assure that the room is warm and supplied with soap, washcloth
and towel. A small rubber-tipped stool or chair should be placed
in the tub. A rubber mat may also be placed in the bottom of the
tub to decrease the risk of falling.
Procedure for transferring to the bathtub:
Explain what the procedure will be.
Place a straight chair or wheelchair facing the tub.
Allow room for the person to fit his legs into the tub.
Steady the chair. Lock the brakes if a wheelchair is used.
Have the person lift or help him lift one foot at a time over the
side of the tub.
Have the person grip the side of the tub and slide carefully off
the chair onto the edge of the tub. If he needs help, support his
body around the waist from behind. (A sheet or strong belt may be
placed around the waist for firm support.)
Have the person move from the tub's edge onto a stool placed in
the tub, giving help as needed. Or, help him lower himself carefully
into the water as he holds onto the grab bar and tub edge.
Wash and dry, providing help as needed.
Drain the water out of the tub before the person stands up.
Place chair facing the tub.
To get out of the tub, have the person take hold of the grab bar,
supporting him around the waist if needed. Help him to a sitting
position on the edge of the tub.
Help him to a standing position and follow the procedure for sitting
in the chair as previously demonstrated.
If the person is weak after his bath, he should return to bed rest.
Complete grooming and other personal care, such as brushing teeth,
can be done when he is feeling better that same day. Grooming aids
can be brought to the bathroom. The bed may be made and the room
cleaned while the person is sitting up or bathing. It is easier
to make the bed while the person is not in it.
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