Removal of bacteria from the skin.

• Confinement in bed increases perspiration, and bacterial growth is stimulated by moisture.
• Skin irritation from hospital bed linens may result in skin breakdown and subsequent infection.

Relaxation effect on the patient.

Stimulation of blood circulation to the skin, respirations, and elimination.

Maintenance of joint mobility.

Improvement of the patient’s self-image and emotional and mental well-being.

Providing the nurse with an opportunity for health teaching and assessment.

Providing the nurse with an opportunity to give the patient psychological support.

The process of building rapport may begin during the initial bath.

The bath aids in the development of the therapeutic nurse-patient relationship as the patient has the nurse’s undivided attention.